"Did I say that?"
Laurel nodded.
"And you did really like her?"
"Oh, yes! She was ever so nice to me! She gave me a little silver pencil out of her bag."
"And she has invited you to spend a few days with her during this visit of yours, at her summer home on Long Island."
Laurel was silent a moment.
"Will you be there?" she inquired.
"I'm sorry. I can't. I've got to be away. That is why she has invited you, so you won't be lonely here in New York. I must be in Chicago for a few days next week on business. I don't like missing even a day of your visit, but it's necessary."
"I wouldn't mind just staying at the hotel with Miss Simpson."
"Why, I thought you said you liked Mrs. Morrison."
"I do—only—I'm used to hotels. I'm not lonely in them. I don't believe I should like visiting. Has Mrs. Morrison any children?"
"Oh, yes. Several. You'll have a splendid time."
"I think I'd rather stay at the hotel," said Laurel.
"Well, we'll see. Don't have to decide to-night. It's only for a few days anyhow. We're going to have our two weeks together in the woods just the same."
