Afterward they had a mile to drive to their hotel; for instead of stopping in the modern town Uncle John had telegraphed for rooms at the Villa Politi, which is located in the ancient Achradina, at the edge of the Latomia de Cappuccini.

By the time they arrived there they were blue with cold, and were glad to seek the warm rooms prepared for them and pass the remainder of the afternoon unpacking and "getting settled." "I'm afraid," said Patsy, dolefully, "that we shall miss the bright sunshine and warmth of Taormina, Tato." "Oh, it is not always warm there, nor is it always cold here," replied the child.

"Indeed, signorina, I have heard that the climate of Siracusa is very delightful." "It doesn't look it," returned Patsy; "but it may improve." The interior of the hotel was comfortable, though, however bleak the weather might be outside.

A good dinner put them all in a better humor and they passed the evening watching the strangers assembled in the parlors and wondering where they had come from and who they were.
"That money," whispered Uncle John to Beth, as he kissed her good night, "is still as safe as can be.

I've lost the key to my trunk, and now I can't even get at it myself." "Lost it!" she exclaimed.
"Yes; but that won't matter.