Jewel: A Chapter in Her Life. Clara Louise Burnham

and mother got off all right I hope?” went on the airy voice. “I'm always afraid of winds at this season myself, but they may not have them. Your cousin Eloise and I are hurrying away to a luncheon, but we shall see you at dinner. You're very comfortable here? That's right. Good-bye.”

      She swept away, and the light again faded from Jewel's face as she went slowly back to her seat.

      “Aunt Madge is afraid, too,” she said to the doll. “We know there won't be winds, don't we, dearie? God will take care of father and mother.”

      An uncomfortable lump rose towards the child's throat.

      Mrs. Evringham followed Eloise into the brougham, smiling.

      “It couldn't be better,” she announced with much satisfaction as they drove away.

      “What?”

      “She is plain—oh, plain as possible. Small eyes, large mouth, insignificant nose. She will never get on with father. He never could endure ugliness in a girl or woman. I have heard him say it was unpardonable. If it hadn't been that we were what we are, Eloise, I should never have dreamed of doing as I have done. Now if only some good fairy would open your eyes to see which side your bread is buttered on! You could do marvels with such a foil for contrast.”