I looked through the papers in vain. And the woman never appeared
again. Much against my will I was forced to keep the child. I am glad
I did, for I have grown to love her as one of my own. I had a married
sister who died in Carolina, so I felt secure in stating that Phyllis
was her daughter, therefore my niece. And that is positively all I
know. And here comes a fellow who says he knows who she is, and,
moreover, that she is a Princess. What do you say to that?"
"What he said was true," gloomily. Without proofs Gretchen remained as
far away as ever. I told him what I knew.
"I must see this Princess before I move. If they look alike, why, let
things take their course. As a matter of fact, Phyllis is to share
equally with Ethel. So, whether or not she proves to be a Princess, it
will not interfere with her material welfare. And, by the way, Jack,
isn't there a coldness of some sort between you and Phyllis?"
"Not a coldness," said I; "merely an understanding. Let us be getting
back to the ballroom. I am anxious to see the two when they meet."
I left him in the reception room.
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