EVESTIffGr LEDGER-PHILADELPHIA THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 1915. ttiMMiii,,iii.iiHi,i.,ip w .in FRAT SOCIETIES 6 ; li. .j t it ta,t1 . JviNjrAJL i ill'" rr,on ' V" 1 ll lit m I at Independent Order Odd Fellows The 6petntton of the employment bureau, tvhleh owned for business last week, demon strAted that It Is an urgently needed Institution In this city. Although It mi Known that many members of tho order In this city xe,i' out of employment, the r i or applicants soon demon strnteti to the manaiters of the i rmreau mat emplojers of la bor hern xvhn are members of the order must do their psrt In helping the work alone. A p.. plications for positions were rrcvircu irom memDers ex filiated with lodges In Penn sylvania, New Jersey and other nearby States. Preparations are belna- mode by the board of directors to gel In direct touch with every emplojer of labor In tlie city as well as thoso members holding positions xxlth firms xxho may be able to place men. The fact that the bureau does not make any charges to the employe or employer .has created entire satlelactlon nmong thw xnrlojs loOaes, and It is expected that ttry lodge financially able will contribute to the maintenance or the bureau. The .cost Is borne equally by all the lodges and the ex psniei are being kept down to a minimum. .mrlcah Suir Lodge enJocd a gala night .Fubruary 18. Thlrti -three out of as living past Brands reixnded to rotlcalt and the room cSDacltv was taxed with members and visitors. The old ofneers camu from all parts, 1'. U. Charles Maulle traveling from Quebec. 1. U. Nandy Neel was accompanied by a delegation from Arxxame Lodge, of tlloucesttr City, N. J., whore he Itxes. The flint degrto was conferred on n class ot IT ranuliIntoH by V, (!. William l'atterson aa noble grand. I'. 0. William Moorhrad aa king, nnj i unft that was com- Josed entirely ot past granda ot this lodge. ' D. u. l-owvll, ui West Philadelphia, and Secretary Ed Zcpp, of Hamilton Lodge, and many other xlsltors highly cnrrpUmemcd tho past grands on the quality and rltunllstlc cor rectness ot their work The Entertainment Coismlttee sutpllnl refreshments. The 11th district rrogrcsslvo (Committee held Its fourth cnuvocntlon at c'lnclnnntus Lodge Xebruary 13 nnd was attended by 200 members of the orncr. llrothcr Calvin u. Althotise. a member of Clnctnr.ntus Ixidg,, gaxe n splendid address on the "Three Links of Fraternity." V Q. Ioula Mtngle, of Kast fork Lodge, gave nn Instructive, address on Adxntic.eil Odd Fel lowship." I. O. Richardson, president of the orphanage, talked about tho work at the home, Tho fifth conxocatlon of the district will be held nt North Star Lodge. Kensington axenua and Cumberland street, on March 8. Tho speak er) will bo the ltcv. Walter Jl. Itandes, v. a., ot Hillside, and grnnd scrlbo to O. E. Kdw n , L. Hitler. The flth district will hold a gola night at Textllu Hall. Kensington axenus and .Vumbtrland atriet. on April Tt. Tho flrst and socond decrees will be exemplified by Clncln natus nnd Fame Lodgte. Utile Lodge conrcrrcd the second degree in full form on three candidates with some ot 'Ihelr "old-timers" In tho harness February lb. vast Orand rierson asiumed his old rolo on the team, to the admiration of the candidates, tlllo was honored again by the presence of flrolher "Mat" Wiley and several other xll- turs. who escaped before their names could o secured. ...... . The "'trail hitters," under' the leadership of Captain Conway, visited Metropolitan Lode last Tuesday night nnd aroused considerable Intersst In the encampment branch. Metro politan had had a successful team, doing do ?ree work every Tuesday night. Visiting mom era alxvajs find a cordial welcome. j Symmetry Lodgo. of Hamburg, celebrated Its 70th anniversary February 17, which was tho Important social event Of the winter In that enterprising little city. -Tho banquet was held In the armory, decorated for tho occasion, and 450 were seated. District Deputy Grand Mas " ter William U. Kline was the toastmaster and Introduced the following guests of honor: Tost llrand Patriarch F. F Conway, of Philadelphia; Orand Representative Wilson K. Mohr, ot Al lentown. nnd Orand Patriarch S. II. Pope, of Philadelphia, all of whom mado addresses Symmetry Lodge la one of the oldest and wealthiest lodges In the Stato and claims romo of tho most prominent citizens of Berks Spring Garden Lodge conferred the second degree on four candidates In a highly efficient manner February 18, greatly Impressing the candidates nnd visiting brothers. The old "standby," District Deputy J. C. Hendersjn, By E. PHILLIPS OPPENHEIM SYNOPSIS. Leonard Tavernake bcrfeiufs J7ealrfc Frhiifc Jln, an American girl tn dlttren "; lie prevents her from commlHIstr suicide, and hives her a position as housekeeper to Mm. Then pretend to be brother and sister. Bhorllu alter. Mrs. -Wcnham Gardner, Uratrice's stater, tries to make Tavernake tell where Beatrice Is, but he refuses. Mrs. Gardner Is an adven turess, who has married a rich man and is keeping him prlroner In a desolate part of England. She ojTers fo Jlnance Tavernake tn a real estate speculation. Bratrtcs gets a poslflon !n n musical comedy. Alter the first nloht Tauernak, kisses her for th" first time, lie Is troubled at the thought that he kissed her because of her resemblance to her beautlu! alsfer, Elizabeth, (Mrs. Gardner). CHAPTER XIV. A. "WAnNING FROJI MR. PRITCHARD. In the morning, when he left, for the city. Bhe was not down. When ho came horns in the evenlns. she waa gone. Without removing his hat or overcoat, he took the letter which he found prop ped up on the mantlepleco and addressed to him to the window and read it. Dear Brother Leonard. It wasn't your fault and I don't think it was mine. If either of us Is to blame, It Is certainly I, for though you are such a clever and am bitious young person, you really know very little Indeed o'f the world-not ao much, I think, aa I do. I am eolng to stay for a few nights, at any rate, with one of the girls at the theatre, who I know wanta some one to chare her tiny flat with her. Afterwards, I shall see. Don't throw this letter In the flro and don't think me ungrateful. I shall never forget what you did for me. How could IT I will send you my address as soon as 1 am eure of It, or you can always write me to the theatre. Good-bye, dear Leonard, Your Sister Beatrice. Tavernake looked from the sheet of Ttotepaper out across the gray square. He knew that he was very angry, angry though he deliberately folded the letter up and placed It In hla pocket, angry though he took oL' his overcoat and hung it up with his usual care; but his anger was with himself. He had blundered badly. It waa absolutely out of harmony with all his Ideas. He told himself that he was glad Beatrice was gone. Housekeeping with an Imaginary sister In this practical world was an absurdity1, Booner or later It must have coma to an end. Better now, before it had gone too far better now, much better! All the. same, he, knew that he was going to be very lonely. He could fix his attention upon nothing, At last he pushed his papers away, put on his hat and coat, and walked Into the tre.ei. Tavernake hesitated for a moment under tUt portico of the Milan Court, looking i)t at the rain which had suddenly com jftiene4 to diacend. He scarcely noticed tbst he had a companion until the man ho waa standing' by his side addressed Wm, "JSay, your name U Tavernake, isn't It?" Tavernake, who had been on the point of eirjding away, turned sharply around. 7H man who had pokn to him was wrins morning clothes pf dark gray tweetf and a, sot Homburit hat, HU com Iltufl waa little sallow and be was iu-shvM ept for a eMght blaak m was sokJnir a Wafc id acftKHt viaa transatlantic. aWut Mm apparanca struck i biHj vasuuly familiar, but net m 8rt recall where lie, had twtore. !usf ) ms umjbb, certainly," Tavr- JH.k 4WHUsa. j I am xtMac to ask you a. &ttBiw!iat THE wuglur fHtr mi w 5S Tf who has been confined to the houso for several weeks, wan keenly missed. The degree staff wilt put on the third degree tonight. Spring Oarden Lodge la deeply Interested In the now employment burcnu, assisting to make It a suc cess and seeking to influence other lodges to git It their earnest support. Tho annual service at the Odd Fellows' Home last Sunday was conducted by American star Lodge, The sermon waa preached bv the Ilav. Thomas W. lltman, pastor of All .Souls' Universalis! Church, ,47th street and l.arcn wood avenue. Tho choir of the same church sang. There were solos by Miss Phoebe Mac Kay and Adam Patterson. Addresses were made by President Slppa and Vice President Hunt, The Lodge Committee was composed of Thomas Flood, F. V. Sherry and Thomas Slpps At the Odd Fellows' Orphanage the services were in charge of these lodges: Clnclnnatus, neacon, Shackamaxon, North Star, Parker Norrls, Mutual Friend, Ouardlan and Fame, constituting tho 11th Philadelphia District, Ad dresses were made by District Deputy Orand Master Samuel French, who presided: the llev. Illchard lladclirre. pastor of St, Matthew's Methodist episcopal Church: Past Grand Mas ter Prod. C. Hanyen, Itobert Graham, Presi dent Hlchnrdson nnd Chairman Itobert Loxo. A quartet choir of Bt, Matthew's Methodist Kplsiopal Chuich.had charge of the music, which Included solos by Stanley Btalner and C. w. Carroll. There were selections by the children's orchestra and chorus, Miss Mary iuun (i-uu tut) ncttpiurai lesson, iviounc jionv Lodge on Monday presented a large American Hair to the Orphanngo christian Kndeaxor So ciety. Tho Odd Fellows' Home had lis annual dona tion day, reception nnd entertainment on Mon dav. Friends of the Institution gave tl.V0 In cash and many useful articles President Slppa mm nis nnnuai report ana review ea mo iiib tory ot the Institution, which was the first fraternal homo opened In America, Among tho other speakers were tho Rev. J, M. S. Elsen berg, of 'trinity lletormod Church; tho llov I. 0. Hoffman, of the Lutheran Church or the Xallxlty. and Past Grand Master Fred Henyen, of Scranton. Prof. C. O. Althoune, of tho Central High School, gave an Illustrated lec turo In the evening on Washington. The nnnuai spring rally of the junior socie ties will be held on Saturday afternoon next nt 2.10 o'clock In tho auditorium or Odd Fel lows' Orphanage, Osonti and Chelten avenues. The Orphanage- Junior Christian Kndcuxnr Si doty, under direction of Mra. I A Enoch (matron) and "iilitor George" (Instructor), will hae Hole charge of tho proMiaiti. aim x,.li entertain with on elaborate Junior christian Endeavor exercise, entitled "The Tcmporanco nags, onie special rcaiures win do music by the I. O. O. F. Junior C. E. Orchestra, an Illustrated object talk by "Mister George," etc. Improved Order of Red Men Many ot the tribes outeido of tho hunting grounds of the city havo followed tho advice of the great sachem In his last speaking leaf and are arranging for the ad mission of large classes of palefaces on the last council sleep of thla moon. Prom re ports received from different eillons of the Stato n guln almost sufficient to overcome tho losses of the first six moons of tho fiscal year will bo renllzod. A district meeting waa held In the council chamber of Wyaluslng Tribe, Palls of Schuylkill, on the sleep of the 18th sun. The tribes in that section were well represented and had a 11 a and effective meeting. Tho deputy great sachems are making ar rangements In their various districts for tho raising ot the chiefs, which takes place the first week of April By many of tho tribes public raisings will b held, to which the pale lace friends will be invited, thus affording them an opportunity of witnessing this Interesting ceremony and lotmlng somo of tho lessons thnt aro given to tho chieftains The great chiefs of tho Great Council of tho United States will conveno In New York city on the sleep of the 2Tth sun for tho purposo of considering some problems that will af fect that body. Great Chief of Records Broolta, of Chicago, on his way to New Vork will stop oft to spend Friday afternoon and evening with his old friends hero. ..,.,., ... Maumec Trlbo has reorganized their minstrel Z3g; TEMPTING A TALE OF LOVE, MYSTERY AND INTRIGUE Impertinent question," his neighbor re marked. "I suppose you can ask It," Tavernake rejoined. "I am not obliged to answer, am I?" The man smiled. "Come," he said, "that's honest, nt any rate. Aro you In a hurry for a fexv minutes?" "I am in no particular hurry," Taver nake answered. "What do you xvnnt?" "A few nights ago," the stranger con tinued, lowering his voice a little, "I met you with a young lady whose appearance, for some reason which wo needn't go Into, Interested me. Tonight I happened to overhear you Inquiring, only a fexv minutes ago, for the sister of the samo young lady." "What you heard doesn't concern me In tho least," Tavernake retorted. "I should say that you had no business to listen." His companion smiled. "Well." he declared, "I havo always heard a good deal about British frank ness, and it seenu to me that I'm getting some. Anyway, I'll tell you xvhere I come In. I am Interested In Mrs. Wenham Gardner. I am Interested, aUo, In her sister, whom I think you know Miss Beatrice Franklin, not Miss Tavernake!" Tavernake made no Immediate reply. The man waa an American, without n doubt. Perhaps he knew something of Beatrice. Perhaps thla was one of the friends of that former life concerning which she had told him nothing. "You are not, by nny chance, proposing,-" Tavernake said at last, "to discuss either .of these ladles with me? I do not know you or what your business may be. In any case. I am going now." The other laid his hand on Tavernake'a shoulder, "You'll be soaked to the ekln," he pro tested. "I want you to come Into the smoking-room here with me for a few minutes. We will have a drink together and a little conversation, If you don't mind." "But I do mlnu," Tavernake declared, "I don't know who you are and I don't want to know you, and I am not going to talk about Mrs. Gardner, or any other lad; of my acquaintance, with strangers, Good-nlght!" "One moment, please, Mr, Tavernake," Tavernake hesitated. There was some thing curiously compelling In the other's smooth, distinct voice. "I'd like you to take this card," he said. "I told you my name before I expect you've forgotten It Prltchard Bam Prltchard, Ever heard fit me before?" i "Never!" "Not to have heard of me In the United States," the other continued, with a grim smile, "would be a tribute to your re spectlblllty. Most of the crooks who And their way over here know of Sam. Prltchard. I am a detective ana l come from New York." Tavernake turned and looked the man over. There was something; convincing about his tone and appearance. It did not occur to him to doubt for a moment a word of this stranger's story. "You haven't anything against, her against either of them?" he asked. "Nothing directly," the detective an swered. "All tha same, you have been calling upon Mrs. Wenham Gardner this evening, and if you are a friend of hers I think that you had better come along with me and have that talk." "I will come," Tavernake agreed, "but I come a a listener. Remember that I have nothing to tell you. So far as you are concerned, I do not know cither of those ladles." Prltchard smiled, "W1L" he said, "J guess we'll let It go at that AU jtn same, U ynu don't mind, we'll talk. Com this way and wtfll set to the smoking-room through ih hotel It' under Coyer " Tity made their way tg the doora of tte hstsi. As soss it4 thsy tmd entered, Xavrak sHk(i ggala. troupo and are now prepared to give entertain ments nt any ot the tribes. Several palefaces were adopted last week. This trlbo la now In tho midst of n campaign to rnlso their memUrshlp to ,101, and they expect to accom plish this before the end ot tho great sun. Sioux Tilbo's wigwam was the centre ot attraction for tho admirers, of the Dakotah Association February 18. This youthful auxil iary In Iledmanshlp Is speedily assuming prominence In the fraternity and Its earnest activity display, a spirit that Is certain to bring great results. The great chiefs honored the organization by general attendanco. Past Great Sacl.ems 'Hogore, Farley and Pooro, Great Senior sagamore Samuel Walker. Great Chief or Records Thomae 't. Donnalley, Great Keeper of Wampum Faner. together with a number of representative chiefs from various tribes throughout .the reservation, Including P. 8. Morris, of Passyunki Doctor Ileswlck; Robert Kerns, of .Wyoming; Arthur Thompson, of Wapella, llrothcr Clark, ot Ixigan, and tho ' old war horse" of '87. John II. Mowers, en tertained the assembled host with words of good cheer and encouragement. Degree Master George I Stevens reported the ihenomenal progress being made by the degree team, and announced that they would confer Uie warrior's (and chlera degrees at Mennn's wlgnam, Hroad and Oatharlno streets, on the sleep of the first sun, worm moon, and Invited all eligible brothers desiring odvancemetit to be present. The team will aloo confer the chiefs degree nt Wyoming's wlgnnm on tomorrow's sleep. Doctor Farley will sco thnt tho team Is In possession of proper paraphernalia and, to mako sure; had 10 fathoms and 60 Inches for that purposo tucked in his "Jeans" before leaving tho wig wam. A broad Pteo forward wnn mnrta few lha association In Its tinarlmoiis decision to In vito Brother Philip Mlnaselon, tho eminent sociologist, a member of Sioux Tribe, to de liver his lecture on "rraternal Societies," w-lth special reference to Rcdmnnshlp. Tho arralr will take placo at Menno's wigwam on the sleep of the 10th sun, plant moon. Red men present will receive strength nnd ammunl 1 1 on for work In human uplirt through tho motherhood that has never been presented before. No 87 maintained Its reputation nt the festive board nnd, under tho efficient management of the Entertnlnment Committee consisting of Brothers Con. Mlefler, John D.'rcro'.Jamc" Stono, Harry Itenznian and Albert Rltzert, tho "Inner man' was well cared lor Paleface Jnmcs Sothern was cnllghtcnod into the mveterlcs of tho adoption degree In the usual vigorous manner for which Sioux Is famous. Pacontn. Trlhn nAnnifA Mvornt nnl,rit,na nn last Friday's sleep, Past Sachem John It. jirciiuuiKii urgei! tacu memucr to capture a palefnce before the crd of snow moon. Several candidates havo been proposed, but with the term ending In worm moon n large Increase Is looked for to offset tho number of members who will drop out of the entire order. Sev eral lnictlvc members were deeply Impressed with the rapid progress of the tribe. Pacunta. Jland, under their gallant leader. Brother J. Linus, rendered their numbers artistically. Brother Daniel O'Nell sang several selections. Past Sachem John Camero gave a lengthy ad dress on tho "Red Men's Jumleo Association," This new body of Red Men promlso somo large social events for members of the order during the summer moons. Chairman J. II, 1), White, ot tin Entertainment Committee, has arranged a big program for tomorrow's sleep. The raising tenm Is being drilled rogularly for the work next month, and those who promised to tnko part aro urgod to attend the meetings moro punctually. P S. Orcen halgh will take chargo ot this work, nnd as l'acnnta Tribe cxrects to do the work In public this year, tho members aro requested to report to him or else their places will bo tilled. Past S-ichtms Gro-nhalgh, Nicholson, Camero and Mcllugh attended tho meeting last week. Braxcs, chiefs and warriors of 11 tribes In tho Uorks reservation held a district council In Reading on February 10, with about AOO representatives. PnBt Great Sachom Charles T. Davis announced that the purposo or tho council was to Interest tho different tribes men In the work of tho organization. A but ton representing tho fraternity Is to bo given for exejy candidate Other grent chiefs who fiartlclpated In tho exercises were tho follow ng Great Sachem Charles Pass, Gnat Senior Sagamore Samuel W. Walker, Past Great fcnehem Harry Burnett, Past Great Sachem Charles It Wllllu, rharlcs A. Hauik. Danlol It. Reed, Hayden McQuardt, John P. Luft, Calvin Rehrcr, David Etter, Charles S. Wcg- "You understand that you will only bo wasting your time If you nre hoping for nny information from mo?" ho declared. "I have nothing to tell you." The detective nodded. "I am taking my chances," he said. "You look as though you hail common sense, at any rate. There aro a few things you ought to hear." On their xvay to the har, they had to cross the further end of tho cafe. Prltchard directed his companion's atten tion toxvard a little croxvd of people xvho were Just taking their seats at a round table. "Crooks," he whispered, "every one of them. Nexv Yorkers, for tho most part. See your friend, Mr. Tavernake?" "Elizabeth!" Tavernako muttered. Prltchard smiled again. "Mrs. Wenham Gardner," ho continued "Well, xx o xvon't say nny thing about her Just yet: Major Post, very xvell known In tho upper circles as 'Jimmy'; Walter Crease, tho man xvlth his hnlr parted down the mlddlo there, and tho pale face. Ho plays at being a nexx'spnper corres pondent over here, got a flat on tho Addphla Terrace, but Heaven knoxvB what ho really does! And look there's Chnrllo Faulkes. out of Slng-SIng last month. What a nerve!" Tavernake looked at the round table In blank amazement. His companion's xvords meant little to him The three men to xvhom the dotectyte had alluded were the three mon whom he hnd recently met In Elizabeth's sitting-room. They were all most correctly dressed, and, compared with the other guests In their Immediate vicinity, possessed an nlr of distinction, although, us usual, Elizabeth was tho dominating tlgure. "What ore you talking about?" Taver nake demanded. "You surely don't mean those people who are xvlth Mrs. Gardner?" Prltchard led him on out of eight up the stairs and Into the smoking-room. "My young friend," ho said, "I am an old stager at this game, and you're Just a trifle green. That clnss of person knoxvs how to wear Its clothes. They'd pass most anywhere, thnt lot would, bet ter that) you or I, I dare say, for they've studied all tho tricks. All the eame, that very distinguished-looking gentle man with the gray hair came out of Slng SIng from a doing a five years' sentence, only last month. "A five years' sentence for what?" Tavernake gaBped. "Robbing a trust company of something over a million dollars," Prltchard an swered. "They never gpt the money back, either." Tavernake vtosj silent. The thing seemed to him Impossible. His companion had ordered drinks and 1't a fresh cigar, "You see, Mr- Tavornake," the latter continued, biting the end of his cigar and chewing It thoughtfully for a mo ment, "London and New York are, after all, a long way aart. The people who come and go In thvse restaurants aro not likely to know anything of the criminal tide of our city. As soon as what we call a tony American crook get out of prison, he comes aver here. Probably not a soul recogplzea him, and there are great fields open always. I am not sure," he con tinued, "that today the crook doesn't do better In London than Jn New York Itself," Tavernake moved restlessly In his chair. "What the devil Is all this talk about crooks!" he exclaimed impatiently "I didn't come here to listen to this sort of thing I am not sure that I believe a word of what you say." "Why should you," Prltchard remarked, "without proof? Look here." He drew a leather ease from hla pocket and spread it out. There were a dozen photographs there of men In prison attire- The detective pointed to one, and with a little shiver Tavernake rscognlMd. the face of the man who had been sitting1 at the right hand of BlUabetb "You doa't bwb ! say," he faltered, "that Mrs. OAilJWr ' OF man, lrvln Hosteller, George Snyder, Elmer Snyder and others. The talks hy Great Sachem Pass nnd Great Senior Sagamoro Walker xvere the beat excr heard by Redman In Reading. As the result over .100 members pledged to strike the troll to tlie wigwam moro regularly, to propose not le.-a than ono candidate In his tribe, and to glvo Brother .Walker next year the largest Increase In membership. Tho ladles of the Degree of iPocahontas served tho banquet and wore highly complimented, This monster council was arranged by tho board of control of Red Men's Hall, Charles T. Davis, Haden Mo guar.lt nnd Allen Miller. . It Is likely that a membership campaign will bo Inaugurated as a result of the gathering. Two years ago a similar contest was waged with tha result that nearly 800 now members were admitted by the city nnd county tribes. There are nine tribes of the order In Reading nnd eight In the county. The membership la nearly 0000 nnd the locnl tribes own their own nome. Tuskawllla Tribe's railing team Is In great demand this term, having engagements with two tribes and a third In prospect. Tho team is under the direction of P. 8. George D. Craig, assisted hy P, 8. John Henry All brothers are Inxlfed to the wigwam, JOlh street and Woodland avenue, Patriotic Order Sons of America Tho allied camps of the Sth district last Sunday paraded from headquarters, 81st street and Ridge avenue, to Northwest Baptist Church, SSth street and Lehigh avenue, and, through Frederick J, Shoyer, presentod the church with a lag. It was received hy the pastor, the Rev. W. D. cope. Bethel Evangelical Lutheran Church. Sedgely avonuo and 8th street, received a flag from Pjunn RIOT. It xvns tircsenteil toy Harry A. Stono and accopted by Charles II. Fry. The pastor, tho Rex'. Charles W. Heath cote, dclKerod a patriotic, address. A silk flag xvas presented to Taylor Memorial Methodist Protestant Church, Hunting Park nxenue and 7th street, by Camp K10. At First Baptist Church, Wlsslnomlng, Past Prisldent Samuel i" Wells presented a flag on Denair ot uamp liiu. Camp 01." was donor of a flag to Norwood Memoaist episcopal unuren. Camp 03 attended a patriotic serxlca In Wes ley Methodist Episcopal Church, hepvlva nnd Huntingdon streets, nnd presented n flag to tho church At Darby Prosbytcrlan Church, 1th and Main streets, camp ,'IH gave a flag. Camp asttJ visited the West Tork M. E. Church and wero Joined by the ladles of Camp 'IK, which Is connected bv blood ties with Camp H20. The Rev. II. W. Hand spoke on tho relationship of tho fraternal organization to tho church. This camp Is forming a de gree tenm from tho young members and hope to get In working shapo soon. Camp 3(11 attended divines sorvlco at the Olnev Lutheran Church on Sunday. There aro four applications for liquor licenses In the xlclnlty, and Camp 3(51 went on rocord against granting them. Tho Entertainment Commlttco, J. F. Miller, chairman, fumlshod a Lincoln anniversary February 12 and a cake-guessing contest February 20. As no ono guessed what tho cake contained, It was put up to the highest bidder. Brother William Nceley. Thoro will be nn "old song" night soon. On Sunday ex-enlng next a big delega tion will go over to Tacony Mothodlst Episco pal Church, Longshoro and Hcgerman streets, on Invitation of Camp HSU, to participate In a Hag presentation to the church. Tho Phlladolphln-Bucks district annual ban quet will be held on Saturday at Camp 330, Cornwclls, There will be a record attendance, a flrst-clnss entertainment and an nliaround good time. blfty-four camps, having moro than 10,000 members nnd assets of nearly ,VK),000, xvero represented by about 150 delegates at tho an nual Berks county convention, held at Mohn ton, near Reading, on Monday. Tho conven tion xvas called to order by Retiring Presi dent Orson N. Rltzman, of Reading, A num ber ot recommendations contained In tho an nual nddress of President Rltzman were cm bodied In the resolutions xxhleh were adopted. Thrv encouraged the nrcsontatlon of flam tn churches, urging that each camp present at I least ono nag aunng tno coming sear, nnd The detective' folded up his case and re placed it In his pocket. "No," ho said, "xve haven't any photo graphs of your lady friend there, nor of her sister. And yet, It may not be so far off." "If you are trying to fasten anything upon those Indies, " Tavernako began, threateningly. ' The detective laughed and patted him on the shoulder. 'It Isn't my business to try nnd fasten things upon nny one," ho interrupted. "At the snmo time, you seem to be a friend of Mrs. Wenham Gardner, and It Is Just as well that some ono should warn her." "Warn her of what?" Tavernake asked. Tho detective looked at his cigar medi tatively. "Make her understand that there Is trouble ahead," he replied. Tavernako sipped his whiskey and soda and lit a cigarette. Then he turned In his chair nnd looked thoughtfully at his com panion. Prltchard waa a strlklng-looklns man, with hard, clean-cut features a man of determination. "Sir. Prltchard, I nm a clerk In an estate olllco. My pocplo wero work-people and I nm trying to better myself In tho xx'orld. I haven't lenrned how to beat about a subject, but I have learned a little of the xvorld, and I knoxv that people such as you are not In the habit ot doing things without a reason. Why tho devil have you brought me In hero to talk about Mrs. Gardner and her sister? If you've anything to say, why don't you go to Mrs., Gardner herself and say It? Why do you come and talk to strangers about their affairs? I am hero listening tn you. but I tell you straight I don't like It." Prltchard nodded. "Say, I am not sure that I don't like that sort of talk," he declared. "I knoxv all nbout you, young man, You're In Dowllng & Spence's office and you've got to quit. You've got nn estate you xx-ant financing. Miss Beatrice Franklin xvaa living under your roof ao your sister, I understand until yesterday, and Mrs. Gardner, for some reason of her own, seems to be doing her best to add you to the list of her admirers, I am not sure what it all means, but I could make a pretty good guess. Here'B my point, though. You're right. I didn't bring you here for your health. I brought you here because you can do me a service and yourself one at the same time, and you'll be doing no one any harm, nobody you care about, anyway, I have no grudge against Miss Beatrice. I'd Just as soon she kept out of the trouble that's com Iwr." "What Is this service?"- Tavernake azked. Prltchard for the moment evaded the point. "I dare say you can understand, Mr. Tavernake' he said, "that In my pro fession one has to sometimes go a long way round to get a man or a woman Just where you want them. Now we merely glanced at that table as we came In, and I can tell you this for gospel truth there Jsn't one of that crowd that I couldn'ti I Med, haul back to New York on soma charge or another. You wonder why I don't do t. I'll tell you. it's because I am waiting waiting until I cat) bring home something more serious, something that will keep them out of the way for Just as long as possible. Do you follow me, Mr. Tavernake?" "I suppose I do." Tavernake answered, doubtfully- "Yon are only talking of the mea, of courser Prltchard smiled. "My young friend." he agreed. "I aro only talking of the men. At the same, time, I guess I'm not betraying any con fidence, or telling you anything that Mrs. Wenham Gardner dosn't know herself, when I e.y that she's doing her best to qualify Xor a jvtnllar position." Yo nm i jfcat ba is fWJUf upUktn7 aginjt the r 'SmmA JeWmel, called Upon the Congreismcn-cieci to vote for the pnssago ot nn Immigration bill similar to the Burnett bill vetoed by .President Wilson. The resolution! also offered the services of the various camps to the O, A. It- to assumo tho carrying out of the anual custom of deco rating the graves of the soldier dead, the vet erans having sent a communication that their ranks aro diminishing and thnt eomo one else will have to tako up tho work. Tho P..O. 8. of A. will co-operate with the Bona of Vet erans. The following officers , wero elected! Nathaniel Orlng. Reading, president! William K. Young Illidsboro. secretary and treas urer! L. o. Haas, Reading, master of forma. Foresters of America Court Fairmount was honored last week by tho visit of Doctor Daly, of Court Schuylkill, candidate for grand treasurer, accompanied by Brothers Mills and Thorpo, of tho same court, ah maae an earnest appeal for the elec tion ot Doctor Daly at the annual convention. The mem bers ot 'he team struggling for first honors In procuring hew members are still hard nt It and candidates are still pourlrg In. Tho committee having , cnargo or tne pinociue tour nament will meet tho delegntca of the other courts Intending to participate thla evening at Court Hamilton Dlsston xxhen It Is expected the final arrangements will be completed. Court Schuylkill has challenged the winner of thla three-cornered contest. Brothers Ross nnd Kennedy, who aro looking after Court Fair mount's Interests, are besieged by members xxlshlng to enter. Brothers O'Toole and Mas-eo. tho deleratea tn tho Combined Excursion Committee, aro work ing hard and expect to carry a largo number of Court Falrmount's memhors to Reading on June 20 Lively times and largo meetings will bo the order In this court from now until tho latter part of March, when tho election for delegates takes place. Court American Eagle, meeting nt 24th nnd Onkford streets under Chief Ranger Stephen J, Pougherty. had as an entertalnmont February 18, the champion pinochle tenm from Court Robin Hood, compo-ed of Brothers Meyers, Connors, Corbett and Thompson Court Amos- i lean Kaulo beat Rohln Hood three Hnut nnf of four nnd ro claims the championship of the Foresters, and they xvould Ilka to hear from other court pinochle teams. Court American Eaglo has aleo beaten Court Pontlac, Address 'ommunlcntlons to Brother David Klsslck, 1023 South 24th street. Court North East was delighted to have Past Grand Chief Ranger Charles P. Bradley nt the Inst meeting. He gave a X'ery Impressive address on the subject of dues, State Master Wood Chopper Thomas O'Connors addressed the court members anil urged tho courts to organlro a cabin of choppers to promote the soclnllblltty of the order. There xvas also a delegation from Court Tamanend to Issue a challenge to Court North East to a pinochle and quoit tournament. As Court North East xvlll accept there xvlll le some Important tournaments between these courts. Tho monthly chopper meeting followed nnd four candidates wero Initiated. Refreshments xxere served. Court North East Is noxv running a continuous benefit In the moving picture thea tre, Aramlngo nx-enue nboxe Huntingdon street, and nsk all members of the order to patronize tho court's benefit. Tickets can be secured from tho secretary, John Creedon, 2121 East Hazzard street. A baseball team Is being or ganized nnd other courts are urged to get In lino for n league. Court Cross Keys' Washington celebration was greatly enhanced hy the stirring addresses of Brothers White and Poxxers, of Court Hav erford. Brothers Whitford and Kelly, of Court Delaware and the following court members: Brothers, Lortng, Goldthwalt, William White and Keller. Enthusiastic applause xxas ac corded tho speakers hy tho large assemblage. Brother William II. White, captain of the de gree team, made an urgent appeal to the team's members to use their utmost endeavors to per form the Initiatory degree at the next meeting, thereby helping the court to maintain its ropu tntlnn of being the banner court ot West Philadelphia Court Schuylkill Initiated 5 new members. John Flck, Anthony Belzer, James Clifford, John O'Donnell nnd Francis J. Oxvens. Flx'e Indlgantly. "I don't believe It for a moment. If she in associating with these people, It's because she doesn't know who they are." Tritchard flicked tho ash from his cigar. "Well," he Bald, "every man hnB a right to his own opinions, and for my part I Ilkq to hear any ono stick up for his friends. It mnkes no odds to me. Hoxv cver, here are a few facts I am going to bring before you. Four months ago, ono of tho turns at a vaudeville show down Broadxvay consisted of a perform ance by a Professor Franklin and his two daughters, Elizabeth and Beatrice. The professor hypnotized, told fortunes, felt heads, nnd the usual rigmarole. Beatrice sang, Ellznbeth danced. People came to seo the show, not because It was any good, but bicauBo tho girls, even in New York, xvero beautiful." "A music-hall In New York!" Taver nako muttered. The detective nodded. "Among the young bloods of the city," he continued, "were txvo brothers, as much alike as twins, although they aren't txvlns, xvhoso names were Wenham nnd Jerry Gardner. There's nothing In fast mo which tnose young mon haven't tried. Betxveen them, I should say they rep resented everything thnt was known of debauchery nnd dissipation. The eldeat enn't bo moro than 27 today, but If you were to see them In the morning, either of them, before they hnd been massagod and galvanized Into life, you'd think they xvero little old men, xvlth Just strength enough left to crawl about. Well, to cut a long story snort, both of them fell In lovo with Elizabeth." "Brutes!" Tavernnke Interjected. "I guess they found Miss Elizabeth a pretty tough nut to crack," the detective went on. "Anyhow, you knoxv what her price was from her name, which Is hers right enough, Wenham, who xvas a year younger than his brother, was the flrst to bid It. Three months ngo, Mr. and Mra. Wenham Gardner. Miss Beatrice, and the devoted father left Nexv York In the Lusltar.la and came to London." "Where Is this Wenham Gardner, then?" Tavernake demanded. Prltchard took his cigar case from his pocket and selected another cigar, "l!?'', thwat'? wllere yu Btrlk the nail right on the head." he remarked , Is thla Wenham Gardner? I don't mind telling you, Mr. Tavernake. that to dis cover his whereabouts Is exactly what I am over on this side for. I have a com mission from the family to find out, and a blank check to do It with," "Do you mean that he has disappeared, then?" asked Tavernake. 0ff ',h,V.faceor the rth- lf." Frltch. ard repllod. "Something like two months uu, hip young married couple, with Miss Beatrice, started for a holiday tour somewhere down In the west of England. A few days after they started, Miss Bea trice comes back to London alone. She goes to a boarding house, is practically penniless, but she has shaken her sister has, l believe, never spoken wth her since. A little later, Elizabeth alone turns up in London. She has plenty of money, more money than she has ever had the control of before In her life, but po husband." "So far, I don't see anything reraa.rk aoe about that," Tavernake interposed. "That may or may nqt be." Prltchard answered drily. "This creature, Wenham Gardner I hate to call him a man was her abject slave up till the time they reached London, at any rate. He would never have quit of his own accord. He stopped quite suddenly communicating with all his friends. None of their cables, even, were answered." "Why don't you go and ask Mrs. Gard ner where he is?" Tavernake demanded bluntly. "I have already," Prltehard declared, "taken that liberty With tears In her (,ye, she assured me that after some slight quarrel, in which the admits that she was the one to blame, her husband walked out of the houne where they were 4 -. 1 A -W - . . ri ' . I uurn7, w sue uas h cm jbjui since. w wm juk reaay with i te jim- new propositions were also presented. The Campaign Committee to aid In electing Dr. Waller J. Daly as grand treasurer give,. J very encouraging report. All members or tne order are Invited every Tuesday evening Post, No, 18, O. A R Hall, 20th and Carlton "court Northern Liberties hefd smoker last Monday evening,, whloh was Immensely en Joyed. Brother John J. Farrell Is actfio In arranging these affairs for the court, and all the expense of those smokors are -.borne i ny the members of the Entertainment Committee-. This court la In the best condition for a 'on time, nnd everything promises to bring tho most succcssiul year of Its career. . J. Green Is financial secretary, and resided at 2310 East Sargent street. , Court Olive Branch's reports show the court to be In belter condition than v'f.b'JS'Jt Brother George Kelly, Is one of the. most active members of this court, and much of ...- .. - j... , kl. ..e-n-ta Tha ellrt meets at Sepvlva and Norrle streets every Thursday evening. Robert Welsh li financial 'cou'rMOIrardvllle, located at Olrardvllle, held a mock trial and smoker February 20. Past supreme Chief nanger Mace, supreme Trus tee Donahue, Deputy Supreme Chief Ranger Pilot. Grand Chief Ranger Seymour, Dr. William D. Baon, Slate Senator It. V. Far ley, John J. Farrell, Jr.. and Thomas D. Donnelly, supremo secretary, ot Jersey City, mado a special trip to the meeting J1"1' ?: ceived a royal wolcome. The official speeches were made on tho good of the order. Court Sylvan. No. 08. at rottsttmn, cele brated Its 28th annlveraary on iebruarv iu with an entertainment and. banouot. ana tne mb.re. laqj? -" 'HY J'A. W .,,SrIiC.,lr10rS.t Tilled. Tho results of two event wore highly n AFM nlimH.M -A BtlinV inn KUUU lllllll-n ,'".' credltablo to tho commltteo in. cnargo. vum- idltabli posed of M. L. Soosholtz, cnaiman: x,i invr Mlsslmer. William Ash. , haymond Mlsslmor. Ray Hartranft, Ixiwls I. Kejne and JUchanl N Seasholts. Financial Secretory Clymer Mini. mcr road nn historical sketch of the court ana gavo many interesting facts In connection w tn Its progress, stating that It was Instituted with 41 cnaner mwnncu ui oi """'".LLK."'"nnrt the roll!, nnd now has 17l members nnu $4787; 21 tn the treasury, after expending $15 874.70 for sick nnd iuncrnl benefits and binevoicnt purposes during Its SJyijirsof o-l-itcnce. Among thoso taking part In i tno ex ercises were Past Supremo Itanger Ham- Mace. Grand Chief Ranger Michael J. Sev nou; Grand Treasurer William D, "aeon. I) Gra:id Secretary Robert Comber. Dcputv Grand Chief Rangefa William II. Gilbert and Earle I. Smalc. John I).. Evans. Esq., D. 8. Marouetto. S, B. Moser. George W noshon. D. H llerto ot. Harry T. Delllcker Hilary Mlsslmer. II. Y Nolman. M. D.. D. W. Hlmes and Joseph Fout. Order of Independent Americans Tied, Wblte and Bluo Council heard Brother Peter Kite say some Interesting things at last meeting. The sage of the council. Brother nieCllHK "" i- xi.lll.Aln, rrtlAhrnlAd his birthday anniversary by a eurprlsa to his felloxv mem bers In the nature of refresh ments. Brother Wllhelm Is a fnltlitul xvorker for tho coun cil, The guard of thla council has been organized, xvlth Brother Jacob B. Wlstcr aB captain, who said It was his desire to bring the guard up to a high state of efficiency, ana rcgisterca names oi many members anxious to Join. This council Is llx'o and gives visitors a cordial welcome. Tho offl.'ers are: John Knight, councilor; George Greenxxood, vice councilor! William Davis, re cording secretary; Albert MacNutt, financial secretary; George C. Mangan, treasurer; Ben jamin Dunkam, George J. Clime nnd Clarence Halm, trustees; Hannan Everhart, assistant recording secretary: Gcorgo Wllhelm, warden. Clifton Heights Council paid a visit to Edwin A. Shubert Council February 18 nnd performed tho Initiatory work In n highly efficient man ner. Tho degree team nnd guard, under Cap tain Shcpley. were xvarmly commended. Tho councilor of the team was H. H. Emery. A Dutch supper xx-aa served to about CO mem bers. harton Council's game of darts with the Guurds last xveck resulted In tho score of :t to 28 for the council Among tho speakers on the night of March 3 at the Stato flag presen tation, besides the State Council offlccrs, xvlll be- PoBt State Councilor Harry Walters; Will iam T. Ramsey, or Chester; E. Krouger, E Wilson and John D. Sauers bouthwork Council gavo a Washington tea tlculars, and even Implored me to help find him." "I cannot Imagine," Tavernako said, "xvhy any one should disbelieve her." Tho detective smiled. "There are a few little outsldo circum stances," ho remarked, looking at tho nsh of his cigar. "In the first place, how do you suppose that this young Wenham Gardner spent tho last week of his stay In Nexv York?" "How should I knoxv?" Tavernake re plied. Impatiently. "By realizing every cent of his property on which ho could lay his hands," tho detective continued. "It Isn't at any tlmo an easy business, and the Gardner In terest Is spread out In many directions, but ho must have sailed xvlth something llko forty thousand pounds In hnrd cash. A suspicious person might presume that that SiO.OOO has found Its xvay to tho stronger of the combination." "Anything else?" Tavernako asked. "I xvon't worry you much more," tho detective ansxvered. "There nro a fexv other circumstances which seem to need explanation, but they can wait. There Is one serious one, however, and that is wnere you come In." "Indeed!" Tavernake remarked. "I was hoping you would come to that soon." "The two sisters, Beatrice nnd Eliza beth, have been together ever since xvo can learn anything of their history. Those people xvho don't understand the disap pearance of Wenham Gardner xvould like to know why they quarreled and parted, why Beatrice is keeping axvay from her sister In this Btrange manner. I per sonally, too, should like to knoxv from MIbs Beatrlco when Bhe last saw Wen ham Gardner alive." "You want me to nsk Mlas Beatrice these things?!' Tavernnko demanded. "It might come better from you," Prltchard admitted. "I have written her to the theatre, but naturally she has not replied." Tavernake looked curiously at his com panion. "Do you really suppose," he asked, "that, even granted there were any un usual circumstances In connection with thnt quarrel do you seriously suppose that Beatrice xvould give her Bister away?" The detective sighed. "No doubt, Mr. Tavernake," he said, "these young ladles aro friends of yours, and perhaps for that reason you aro a little prejudiced in their favor, Their whole brlnglng-up and associations, how ever, have certainly not been of a strict order. I cannot help thinking that per suasion might be brought to bear upon Miss Beatrice, that It might be pointed out to her that a true story Is the safest." "Well, If you've finished," Tavernake declared. "I'd like to tell ypu what I think of your story. I think It's all rt d silly nonsense! Tills Wenham Gardner, by vour own saying, was half mad. There was a quarrel and he's irone off to Paris or somewhere. An to your suggestions about Mrs. Gardner, I think they're Infamous," Prltchard waa unmoved by his com panion's warmth, "Why, that's all right, Mr. Tavernake," he afllrmed. "I can quite understand your feeling like that Just at first. You see. I've been among crime and criminals all my days, and I learn to look for a certain set of motives when a thing of this sort happens. You've been brought up among honest folk, whq go the straightforward way about life, and nat urally you look at the same matter from a different point of view. But you and I have got to talk this out. I want ypu to understand that those- very charming young ladles are not quite the class of young women you know anything about. Mind you, I haven't a word to say against Miss Beatrice. I dare say she's as straight as they make 'em. But you must take another whisky and soda, Mr. Tavernake. Now, I insist upon It. Tim, come right over here." Mr. Prltchard seemed to have forgotten what he was talking about. The room had been suddenly invaded. The whole of the little supper party, whose Indi vidual members he had pointed out to his companion, came trooping Into the room. They were all apparently on the be ot terms with themselves, and they ait seemed to make a point of absolutely Ignoring Prltchard' presence. Elizabeth was the one exception. She was carrying a tiny Chinese panll under one arm; with th finger of her other hand she held a lorJ.-a!isH mounted mwcle to hw ye, etared directly t tbe two i .ms-ft A, HTttj9at .- berger suctrln ended the cullnarv A v,lHtl to tne satisfaction of the large SmnMrt"Wa tnl The troupe hope to lvl KiTR.1"' rrfflj talnmem next month. th TdJ 11". "P?lbr ti2i later. " '" " nnUnjtf Jr. Order United American MtihM .. i'l".....; ",:U '" .cnargo th. Hi -fiSM nine. March 0. t, J? "r . w"iV be held, on E tfc? i SJ'IIWE room, Governor ijS'.Nc and. National connete1 xviiKin are expected t l iiiu Dvcning, ' Tha ,?.- ... ES5M?w.0ir!utaTa.. oouncii meetings. ,lw l-,tililr . Stephen Glrard Council Is worklnr i. .J? largo clan for Initiation. f vn MJjjir. for r Its debating contest to Marco is4?,4'- qucatlon of erecting a Jr. O. U. A.u"L,l' Spring City Council will hold a cuM1 ,. J',lrc,, 27' tM "uVSB, Rockdalo Council conducted an i.i.J?--' Washington nnd Lincoln service at ik""". of the regular council moetlng last rrtiJ."' nlng. Refreshments and cigars xtmEHf! Perm's Park Council Is arranghVg ' R1L, meeting In March as a part of a Tii i M Bhlp campaign. n a t"i " Toughkcnamon Council Is arrantln. Urt orense Its funeral benents b?fiSL!S class "B" of tho National I&ntrU&Ll! Department about April 1. -ua,nu foam Fraternal Patriotic American" More than 2000 mmi,,.. , .. . laat Mondav evening witnessed a g-il?S Inl'l-.lnn of candidate, from ttZSfigf win ui i-niiaaeipnia. und-- .C supervls on of Stats ViSfW cllor William IT Rifi,?""1 Tho Tcmolo was "iowSfSft gags and, colors of Uw uS? Stato and cltv, and tho & tlon ceremony was th. & oxcmpllflatlon of tho xVcrt S xvero:" Elm,"" C","..?WU councl or: Robert C. DenclahockV lunlw J?3f councilor: Victor C. Peters, vlco couneB.lf,V gustus H Gocbel, warden! Albert Kami. ductor: V. C. Haumgard. Inside enlln,!V2" lore O. Schwartz, outs do sentinel- filnS Brother Samuel A. Harkcr. chanlaln; HirrrHt' Ann. financial secretary: Robert M lffi7J.' cording secretary. Richard II. Crockfort V,'. ganlat: Thomas G. Wlldo. caotaln IISS.'S Diligent Council. No. 4. The addrtES Tl.?. aa follows: "Washington's PrtncSlsJ'' ill Rev. Samuel A. Hnrker. grand " chaflth'S New Jersey: "Our State Cocll," a'uV Coy, stato councilor: "Our Board of OfiwS" Erxvln L Getter, junior past stat, eomtnor--pur Future." William H. ShenemanT jut; vlco councilor- "Our Good Care of ths cr P.55ns' A A.14,.L'1"1.,? 5"nt0 eountll trsuorfr: "Our Gi cat Work." Oeorge 8. FordTstste council eecretary. The Invited guests xtSi II. P. F. Von Mlnden. State councilor of nJw i Jersey: councils ot Camden and vicinity tth ' I'.CKiment unnormea ItanK Of New Jerter councils of Middle and Western Districts of Pennsylvania, Congratulatlona and comnJnas. tlons xvcro extonded on nil sides, and thosa taking cart felt satisfied that the event would be a lasting testimonial to this great American fraternity A new contest In tho campaign for members In Luval Council xvns Introduced br Dr II Hunter Lott, tho physlcnl examiner. A xritch" a turkcv and a box of clgnrs are the crlies offered to tho Individuals xvho get tha reculred number of nexv members bv December 23 nut This has caused a largo demand for cronosl tlon cards. William White, the flrst r.rldnt and organizer of tho "Old Guards." hit been nrmlnated again for that post, there being no opposition. Ho xvlll soon start on hu tenth year of activity in that direction, fhei other nominee wero: William J. Bubcck. vie, d-mI-dnt: William J. Guckes secretary: Robert W Grlssom. treasurer. The Old Guards have Just rcnrganlkcd xvlth some 30 members on th, roll and n fair financial standing. All Indica tions point to a successful future. men. Presently she came languidly across tho room to them. "Dear mc," she said, "I had no idea that oven your wide circle of acquaint ances, Mr. Prltchard, Included mjr friend, Mr. Tavernake." , Tho txvo men rose to their feet'Tavsr nake felt confused and angry. It was ns though he had been claylnir the traitor in listening, even for a moment, to these f stories. "Mr. Prltchard Introduced himself to me only a few mlnutea ago," he'declared. "He brought mo In here and I have been listening to a lot of rubbish from him of which I don't believe a single word." She flashed a wonderful smile upon him. "Mr. Prltchard is so very censorious," she murmured. "Ho takes such a very low view ot human nature. Alter ali, though, I suppose wo must not Mini him. I think that as men and women wo do not exist to him. We are'elmply the pegs by means of which he can climb a little higher In tho esteem ot his em ployers." Prltchard took up hla soft hat and stick. "Mrs. Gardner," ho said, "I will con fess that I have been wasting my time with this young man. You are a, trills severe upon me. You may And, and b fore long, that I am your best friend." She laughed delightfully. "Dear Mr. Prltchard," Bhe exclaimed, "It Is a strange thought, that I If only I dared hopo that some day It might com true I" "Moro Unlikely things, madam, i happening overy hour," the detective re marked, "Tho world our little corner, of it, at any rate is full of anomalies. There might even come a time to any one of us three xvhen liberty was more dangerous tnan the prlBon cell Itself." He nodded carelessly to Tavernake, and with a bow to Elizabeth turned and left tho room. Elizabeth remained as though turned to stone, looking after hlra as h descended the stairs. "The man la a fool!" Tavernake cried. roughly. Elizabeth shook her head and sighed. "He is something far more ineffective. Bhe said. "Hu Is Just a little too clever. Elizabeth did not at once rejoin 'her friends. Instead, she sank on to the low settee close to xvhere Bhe had been stand ing, and droxv Tavernake down to her side. Bhe waved her hand across at w others, who were calling for her. , - "In a moment, dear people," she !. Then she leaned back among the Min ions, and laughed at her companion, ., "Tell me, Mr, Tavernnke," she awed, "don't you feel that you have steppe into a sort of modern Arabian Nlg-hU? "Why?" j; "Oh, T know Mr. Prltchard's weakn? she continued. "He loves to throw's glamor around everything he y 9 does. Becnuso he honors nje by Jnteff estlng himself In my concerns, he M probably told you all sorts of wonderm things about me and my friends. A ve ingenious romancer, Mr. Prltchard, VvU know. Confess, now. didn't he teU.Mi some stories about us?" Jr1 I She might have spared nerseiija trouble ot beating about the bush. ThtjJ was no hesitation about Taveroase-aB "He said that your friends were WL nn nt lh.ni criminals." Tavernak4l$2 clared, "and he admitted that Pv'iXHJ, working hard at the present uorosffi discover that you were one, too. Kh Inuohail anftlv hut heartily. "I wonder what was his object," remarked, "in taking you into n fldence?" "He happened to know." Tavernak plained, "that I was intimate v.n sister. He wanted ma to ask Beatrj certain question." , Elizabeth laughed no more. She l steadfastly into his eyes, "And that nuestlon?" 'ir wentA m tn flair R&trlC& she left you and hid herself In Londi She tried to smile, but not very j cessrully. "Accordlno- to hla story." TaV' continued, "von and Beatrice and husband were away together sow In h. .niintw KnmAthinff naPP' there, something which rejulted Uy disappearance of your nusuauu- v txxtna back alono and has not P vr..t iinpfl Rami aftarward. VOxS, came, bask alone, Mr Oarthw UiVM ? Vf f v 30im8gD TQMOBROW4 t Shisler,"wa, thoTra B? anW Ml !Lf2 &.!Y"h'lt"P' Titt M-in tofts. tl