CHAPTER XVIII.
"Uncle John," said Ruth next morning, taking Mr.Alwynn aside after breakfast, "we are leaving by the early train, are we not ?" "No, my love, it is quite impossible.

I have several papers to identify and rearrange." "We have stayed a day longer than we intended as it is.

Most of the others go early.

Do let us go too." "It is most natural, I am sure, my dear, that you should wish to get home," said Mr.Alwynn, looking with sympathetic concern at his niece; "and why your aunt has not forwarded your letters I can't imagine.

But still, if we return by the mid-day train, Ruth, you will have plenty of time to answer any letters that--ahem!--seem to require immediate attention, before the post goes; and I don't see my way to being ready earlier." Ruth had not even been thinking of Dare and his letters; but she saw that by the early train she was not destined to depart, and watched the other guests take leave with an envious sigh.