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+Project Gutenberg's The Automobile Girls at Palm Beach, by Laura Dent Crane
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: The Automobile Girls at Palm Beach
+       Proving Their Mettle Under Southern Skies
+
+Author: Laura Dent Crane
+
+Release Date: November 24, 2011 [EBook #38123]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE AUTOMOBILE GIRLS AT PALM BEACH ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Roger Frank and the Online Distributed
+Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net
+
+
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration: The Girls Sat On the Broad Piazza.]
+
+
+
+
+THE AUTOMOBILE GIRLS AT PALM BEACH
+
+OR
+
+PROVING THEIR METTLE UNDER SOUTHERN SKIES
+
+By
+
+LAURA DENT CRANE
+
+  Author of The Automobile Girls at Newport, The Automobile
+  Girls in the Berkshires, The Automobile Girls Along the
+  Hudson, The Automobile Girls at Chicago, etc.
+
+Illustrated
+
+PHILADELPHIA
+
+HENRY ALTEMUS COMPANY
+
+
+
+
+Copyright, 1913, by
+
+Howard E. Altemius
+
+PRINTED IN U. S. A.
+
+
+
+
+CONTENTS
+
+        I. The Land of Dreams                            7
+       II. A West Indian Squall                         21
+      III. The Fair Unknown                             32
+       IV. The Compact                                  43
+        V. The Daughter of Mrs. De Lancey Smythe        51
+       VI. The Countess Sophia                          64
+      VII. Tea in the Cocoanut Grove                    75
+     VIII. The Warning                                  87
+       IX. A Case of Mistaken Identity                  95
+        X. The Secret Signals                          105
+       XI. Wheels Within Wheels                        113
+      XII. Maud Refuses to Be Rescued                  123
+     XIII. A Surprise Party                            132
+      XIV. The Plot Thickens                           147
+       XV. Caught Napping                              154
+      XVI. Welcome and Unwelcome Guests                166
+     XVII. The Midnight Intruder                       179
+    XVIII. The Water Fête                              189
+      XIX. Red Dominos                                 200
+       XX. Conclusion                                  204
+
+
+
+
+The Automobile Girls at Palm Beach
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I
+
+THE LAND OF DREAMS
+
+
+"I don't believe anything could be more lovely than this," exclaimed
+Mollie Thurston, leaning back in a wicker chair on the piazza of one of
+the largest hotels at Palm Beach.
+
+"Right you are!" replied her friend, Ruth Stuart, as she gazed across
+the still blue waters of Lake Worth dotted with pleasure boats. "I can't
+decide whether I should like to ride in the automobile, or sail, or just
+sit in the cocoanut grove and listen to the music. Life seems so easy
+under a blue sky like this, and there are so many things to do that it
+is hard to make a choice."
+
+"What do people usually do at this hour?" Grace Carter asked. "A woman I
+talked with on the train told me there was a programme of amusements for
+every hour at Palm Beach."
+
+"Well, my dear, you have only to gaze about you and see for yourself. It
+is now high noon," answered Ruth, consulting her watch.
+
+Grace glanced quickly about her. All along the broad piazza, and under
+awnings on the lawn, a gay company of men, women and young people were
+sipping delicious iced fruit drinks in tall, thin glasses.
+
+"It is undoubtedly the witching hour for pineapple lemonades," said
+Ruth. "And we must be in the fashion immediately. Papa," she called to
+her father, who was immersed in the pages of a New York newspaper
+several days old, "you are not doing your duty by us. We are getting
+awfully thirsty."
+
+Mr. Stuart, clad in white, and looking the picture of comfort, smiled
+lazily over his paper at his daughter. "Order what you like, my dear. Am
+I not always at the command of the 'Automobile Girls'? What do you wish,
+little lady?" he asked, turning to Barbara Thurston, who had been lost
+in a day-dream and had heard nothing of the conversation.
+
+"I haven't any wish," responded Barbara. "I am too happy to be troubled
+with wishes."
+
+"Then suppose I wish for you, Bab?" suggested Ruth. "Go back to your own
+sweet dreams. I'll wake you when the wish comes true."
+
+Presently the four girls were sipping their fruit lemonades like the
+rest of the world at Palm Beach. On the breeze the sound of music was
+wafted to them from a morning concert in the distance.
+
+"Where is Aunt Sallie?" Ruth suddenly asked, again interrupting her
+father's reading. "This place has bewitched me so that I have forgotten
+even my beloved aunt. This is the land of dreams, I do believe. We are
+all spirits from some happy world."
+
+"Here comes your spirit aunt," returned Mr. Stuart, smiling. "She has
+evidently been spirited away by some other friendly spirits."
+
+The girls laughed as they saw the substantial figure of Miss Sallie
+Stuart strolling down the piazza. She was walking between two other
+persons, one a tall, middle-aged man with dark hair slightly tinged with
+gray, the other a young woman. They were all three talking animatedly.
+
+"Girls, look!" exclaimed Ruth, in suppressed excitement. "Aunt Sallie is
+with that Maud Warren. You remember we met her at Lenox, Bab, and she
+tried to ride you down in the famous race. Delightful creature--to keep
+away from." Ruth gave a contemptuous sniff, then added. "That nice
+looking man must be her father."
+
+"She looks as haughty as ever, and then some more," said Mollie
+aggressively.
+
+The girls giggled softly, then straightened their faces for the trio was
+almost upon them, and it was not safe to indulge in further
+conversation.
+
+After seeing that his charges were supplied with lemonade, Mr. Stuart
+had returned to his paper.
+
+"Robert," broke in Miss Sallie's dignified voice, "this is Mr. Warren
+and his daughter Miss Warren. They----"
+
+But at the first word Mr. Stuart had risen and the two men were
+enthusiastically shaking hands.
+
+"Why, Warren," exclaimed Mr. Stuart, "I had no idea that you were in
+this part of the world. The last time I saw you, you were ranching out
+in Idaho."
+
+"Quite true," replied Mr. Warren, smiling, "but that was ten years ago.
+A great many things have happened since then." He sighed and looked out
+over the blue lake. "Mrs. Warren died the next year," he said slowly.
+"Maud and I are alone."
+
+"I am deeply sorry to hear of your great loss," sympathized Mr. Stuart
+and his fine face saddened. He too had known that loss.
+
+Turning to Maud who had been exchanging rather distant greetings with
+the four girls, he said pleasantly. "So this is Maud. She was a little
+girl in short dresses when last I saw her. How these children do grow
+up."
+
+Maud smiled frigidly and for the fraction of a second allowed her hand
+to touch that of Mr. Stuart. "One must grow up some time, you know," she
+murmured.
+
+"I should like to stay eighteen forever," exclaimed Ruth, with
+enthusiasm.
+
+"Would you indeed?" remarked Maud Warren, raising her eyebrows. "How
+odd!"
+
+There was a brief silence. The four girls stared straight ahead and
+tried to control their desire to laugh. During their stay at Lenox the
+year before the circumstances of which having been fully told in the
+"Automobile Girls in the Berkshires," they had not been impressed with
+Maud Warren, on account of her disagreeable and overbearing manner. But
+the blasé air that she now affected, was in their candid eyes extremely
+ridiculous, and her remark to Ruth had filled them all with unseemly
+mirth.
+
+Maud Warren, however, serenely unconscious of what was passing through
+their minds, sank into a wicker chair, and deliberately turning her back
+upon the "Automobile Girls," began a conversation with Miss Sallie.
+
+The "Automobile Girls" dated their organization back to almost two years
+before, when Barbara Thurston had bravely stopped a runaway team of
+horses driven by Ruth Stuart, a rich western girl, summering in
+Kingsbridge, the home town of the Thurstons.
+
+A warm friendship had sprung up between Ruth Stuart, Barbara and Mollie
+Thurston, that resulted in a journey to Newport in Ruth's red motor car,
+familiarly known as Mr. A. Bubble. Grace Carter, a Kingsbridge girl, had
+been asked to complete the quartette of adventurous damsels, while Miss
+Sallie Stuart, Ruth's aunt had gone along as chaperon.
+
+After a series of remarkable events their trip ended with the capture of
+a society "cracksman," known to the police as the "Boy Raffles." The
+"Automobile Girls" then returned to Kingsbridge, where several weeks
+later, Mr. A. Bubble once more bore them away to the heart of the
+Berkshires. There they spent a delightful month, in a little log cabin,
+roughing it. In "The Automobile Girls in the Berkshires," the story of
+the little Indian "ghost" that haunted "Lost Man's Trail," and who
+afterwards turned out to be an Indian princess is charmingly related.
+
+After a winter of hard study, the "Automobile Girls" were again
+reunited, and in "The Automobile Girls Along the Hudson," their journey
+through the beautiful Sleepy Hollow Country is narrated. The eventful
+weeks spent in the ancestral home of Major Ten Eyck, an old friend of
+Miss Sallie Stuart's, ending with their brave fight to save the
+beautiful old house from destruction by forest fires, made the
+"Automobile Girls" stand out as true heroines.
+
+The best work since their initial adventure, however, had been done in
+Chicago, and the record of it, set down in "The Automobile Girls at
+Chicago," was not yet three months old. While on a holiday visit to
+Ruth, at her Chicago home, they had been the guests of the Presbys,
+relatives of the Stuarts, at their country place "Treasureholme." Owing
+to imprudent speculation in wheat, both Mr. Stuart and Mr. Presby had
+become heavily involved and were facing financial ruin. Through the
+efforts of Barbara Thurston, aided by the other "Automobile Girls" the
+rich treasure, buried by one of the ancestors, was discovered in time to
+save the Presby estate.
+
+Before leaving Chicago, Mr. Stuart had promised his daughter and her
+friends a sojourn at Palm Beach during the month of March. Now the
+"Automobile Girls" had actually arrived in the "Land of Flowers" eager
+for any pleasure that sunny Florida might yield them.
+
+The four young girls were unusually quiet as they sat idly looking out
+over the water. Maud Warren's arrival had cast a chill over them.
+
+It had been an enchanted land, Barbara reflected rather resentfully, now
+the enchantment was broken.
+
+Ruth sat covertly taking stock of Miss Warren's elaborate white lace
+gown and wondering why young girls ever insisted on aping so called
+"society" fashions. While Mollie and Grace speculated as to how long a
+call the Warrens were going to make.
+
+Maud, totally oblivious that she had been weighed in the balance by four
+stern young judges, and found wanting, languidly conversed with Miss
+Stuart, in her most grown-up manner.
+
+"Have you met the De Lancey Smythes, Miss Stuart?" she drawled. "They
+are too utterly charming. Mrs. De Lancey Smythe belongs to an old, old
+Southern family. She is a widow, with one daughter, Marian, a most
+delightful young woman. It was only through them that I was persuaded to
+come here."
+
+"Indeed," replied Miss Sallie. "We arrived yesterday. Therefore we have
+met no one, as yet."
+
+"Of course not," agreed Maud. "You really must meet them!"
+
+"I should be pleased to meet any friends of yours, Miss Warren," replied
+Miss Stuart courteously.
+
+"By the way, Stuart," said Mr. Warren, "what do you say to a sail in my
+launch, this afternoon? I should like to entertain some one besides the
+De Lancey Smythes. They are too fine for me. I am just a plain blunt
+man, and can't stand too many extra frills. Maud, see to it that you
+don't invite them. I absolutely refuse to be bothered with them,
+to-day."
+
+Maud flushed hotly at her father's contemptuous allusion to the De
+Lancey Smythes. But restraining her feelings she turned to Miss Stuart
+with a forced attempt at graciousness.
+
+"Won't you come for a sail? It will be awfully good of you."
+
+"We should be delighted, I am sure," replied Mr. Stuart, looking gravely
+at Maud. He then turned a compassionate gaze toward his friend, Mr.
+Warren. "That is, I mean we shall go with you, provided my sister has
+made no other plans."
+
+"Are you sure your launch won't pitch, Mr. Warren?" inquired Miss
+Stuart.
+
+"I am perfectly certain, Miss Stuart," replied the millionaire. "The
+lake is like a mill pond to-day. There is not a ripple on it."
+
+While they had been making their plans for the afternoon, a man had been
+leaning idly against the railing of the piazza. He now strolled quietly
+away, without having appeared to notice any one of them, or to have
+overheard any of their conversation.
+
+But Barbara had observed him. She had an unquenchable curiosity
+concerning faces. And this man appeared indefinably interesting.
+
+Was it the foreign cut of his dark suit, conspicuous among the crowds of
+white ones worn by most of the men at Palm Beach? Or was it his strong,
+clean-shaven face with its rather heavy bull-dog jaw, its square chin,
+and keen gray eyes, a little too narrow for Bab's taste? Bab did not
+know, then. But she took in the man's whole expression, and the adverse
+opinion she silently formed, at that time, she never had occasion to
+change.
+
+As the party was about to separate for luncheon two women appeared in a
+nearby doorway and stood looking up and down the piazza.
+
+"Oh, there are dear Marian and her mother!" cried Maud, hurrying over to
+greet her friends.
+
+"Dear Mrs. De Lancey Smythe," exclaimed Maud, with a defiant look toward
+her father, "I do so want you to go out with us in our launch this
+afternoon. Won't you let me introduce some new friends to you, who are
+going to sail with us?"
+
+Mr. Warren turned red. A look of disappointment, verging on anger crept
+into his good-natured brown eyes as his daughter deliberately defied
+him.
+
+The De Lancey Smythes glanced toward the Stuart party, with bored
+indifference.
+
+Mrs. De Lancey Smythe made some low-voiced remark to Maud who nodded her
+head slightly. Whereupon mother and daughter moved toward Miss Stuart
+with an air of haughty condescension.
+
+Mrs. De Lancey Smythe might have been anywhere from thirty-five to
+forty-five. She was tall, well-proportioned and a decided brunette. At a
+glance one would have decided her to be very handsome, but close
+observers would have noted a hard expression about the eyes and mouth
+that completely destroyed the effect of beauty. As for her daughter,
+Marian, she was a small, slender insignificant young woman who seemed
+entirely overshadowed by her mother's personality.
+
+Both mother and daughter were dressed perhaps a shade too elaborately
+for good taste, and there was something about them that immediately
+aroused a sense of vague disapproval in the minds of the Stuart party.
+
+"Maud is always so thoughtful of her friends," murmured Mrs. De Lancey
+Smythe, turning to Miss Sallie with well simulated appreciation. "She
+knows how fond we are of sailing."
+
+Miss Sallie looked sharply at the speaker. The De Lancey Smythes were
+evidently unaware of Mr. Warren's animosity toward them. She was about
+to frame some polite excuse for not going on the launch, hoping to thus
+nip in the bud the proposed sail, when suddenly meeting Mr. Warren's
+eyes, she saw an expression of entreaty in them that made her hesitate.
+
+"I hope you and your 'Automobile Girls' will not disappoint me," he said
+pleadingly.
+
+"Thank you," responded Miss Stuart. "We shall be pleased to go."
+
+With a formal bow to Mrs. De Lancey Smythe and her daughter, Miss Sallie
+marshaled her little force and left the piazza.
+
+"Very charming people," remarked Mrs. De Lancey Smythe, to Maud Warren,
+after they had disappeared. But there was an unpleasant light in her
+eyes, and a certain tightening of her lips that showed resentment at the
+manner of her reception by the Stuart party.
+
+"We shall be obliged to play our cards very carefully," she warned
+Marian, when in the privacy of their own apartment. "That Miss Stuart
+seems already inclined to be hostile. As for those girls----"
+
+"I think they're the nicest looking girls I've seen for a long time.
+Ever so much nicer than Maud Warren," exclaimed Marian.
+
+"Hold your tongue," commanded her mother angrily. "Don't let me hear any
+more remarks of that kind, or you'll have cause to regret them."
+
+Marian relapsed into sulky silence. She knew her mother only too well.
+Nevertheless she made up her mind to try honestly to make a good
+impression upon the first girls with whom she had ever wished to be
+friends.
+
+Mr. Stuart and Mr. Warren did not at once follow their respective
+charges in to luncheon, but sat down on a wide settee in one corner of
+the piazza for a long talk. One topic of conversation followed another,
+until at last Mr. Warren lowered his voice and said:
+
+"Stuart, I am going to ask a favor of you because I need your help more
+than I can say. You see," he went on, his face flushing painfully with
+embarrassment, "I have tried to give my daughter the proper sort of
+care. I have certainly spared no money in the effort. But what can
+money, alone, do for a motherless girl?" His voice choked a little.
+"Perhaps I should have married again, if only on Maud's account. But I
+tell you, Bob, I couldn't. My wife's memory is still too dear to me. No
+other woman has ever interested me." He paused a moment, then looked
+away, while Mr. Stuart patted his shoulder sympathetically.
+
+"And now," went on poor Mr. Warren, shaking his head sadly, "my girl has
+fallen in with a lot of society people who are doing her more harm than
+good--for instance, these people you have just seen are among the
+number. You wonder, perhaps, why I don't like the De Lancey Smythes. No
+one can deny that they make a good appearance but there's something
+about the mother that I distrust. She's not genuine, and although she
+tries to conceal it she's not well-bred. Maud won't believe it, and
+can't be made to see it. But I can. Now I believe, if she goes about
+with your four nice, wholesome girls and a fine woman like Miss Stuart,
+she'll open her eyes a trifle. And I want to ask you, old man, to stand
+by me and help me out. Ask your girls to help me save my girl from her
+own foolishness and the influence of just such people as these De Lancey
+Smythes. Will you help me Stuart, for 'auld lang syne'?"
+
+"Why of course I will, Tom," replied good-natured Mr. Stuart warmly,
+grasping Mr. Warren's hand. "I'll tell my sister, Sallie, too. She'll
+know just what to do with Maud."
+
+"But you understand, Bob, we shall be obliged to go at this business
+tactfully," protested poor Mr. Warren. "I am afraid my daughter is a
+difficult proposition at times, poor child. But she'll come through all
+right. She is only nineteen. There's a lot of time yet."
+
+"Oh, Sallie will manage. Trust Maud to her, my friend. And now, let's go
+in to luncheon," returned Mr. Stuart.
+
+At luncheon, Mr. Stuart repeated his conversation with Mr. Warren to
+Miss Sallie and the "Automobile Girls."
+
+"I am afraid Maud will be exceedingly difficult to manage," Miss Sallie
+demurred. "She is a law unto herself. As for those De Lancey Smythes, I
+shall endeavor to find out something about their social position." Miss
+Sallie looked about her with the air of a duchess. "But, since you have
+given your promise to your friend, we will do what we can for Maud."
+
+The girls also promised their aid. And so, for the time being, the
+matter was settled.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II
+
+A WEST INDIAN SQUALL
+
+
+By half past two that afternoon Mr. Warren's launch with its party of
+pleasure seekers was well under way.
+
+The "Automobile Girls" had gathered in one end, and were
+enthusiastically commenting on the beauty of the scenery. Miss Sallie
+had been conscientiously trying to cultivate Maud Warren, and rather
+than antagonize her in the beginning had exerted herself to be agreeable
+to the De Lancey Smythes. Mrs. De Lancey Smythe, however, had other
+views afoot than the cultivation of Miss Sallie, and had immediately
+engaged in conversation with Mr. Stuart. Hardly had the launch put out
+from shore, before she beckoned him to one side of the little deck, and
+complacently kept him there until Ruth, far from pleased with this turn
+of affairs, called to her father to join them. But Mrs. De Lancey Smythe
+proved equal to the occasion, for rising gracefully, she calmly strolled
+by Mr. Stuart's side to the end of the launch where the four girls were
+seated. Here they were joined by Miss Sallie, who had been watching the
+manoeuvres of the other woman with well-veiled contempt, and the
+conversation became general.
+
+"Do you know many people here, Mrs. Smythe?" asked Miss Sallie, turning
+to the other woman.
+
+"Only a few," replied Mrs. De Lancey Smythe indifferently. "Most of the
+people I know have been abroad all winter. Many of my dearest friends
+are among the peerage. Two people I know well, arrived to-day, however.
+The young Count de Sonde and his friend, Monsieur Duval."
+
+She pronounced the two names with a faultless accent that was not lost
+upon the practised ears of Ruth, who had spoken French fluently since
+she was a child and had had a French nursery governess for years.
+Whatever were her shortcomings, Mrs. De Lancey Smythe could at least
+speak French.
+
+"A real count!" exclaimed Mollie. "How interesting!"
+
+"Oh, we know lots of titled people," Marian interposed. "There were two
+countesses and a marquis at our hotel in Newport last summer."
+
+"Isn't all this lovely?" cried Barbara. She was not interested in counts
+and titles. She was keenly alive to the beauty of the scenery about
+them. "I can't decide which out-blues the other, the lake or the sky."
+
+"But aren't there a great many clouds in the sky?" questioned Ruth. "See
+how they have piled up over there? Do you suppose, by any chance, that
+we shall have rain? We were told that it never rained down here. It
+simply isn't tolerated."
+
+The launch was now running far out from the shore, which was lined with
+pretty villas, set here and there in the midst of cocoanut palms and
+oleander trees. Following the boat's path of rippling waves came another
+launch much smaller than Mr. Warren's. It was manned by two men who had
+apparently not observed them. The men were deep in earnest conversation.
+
+"Oh, Marian, there is the Count de Sonde with his friend!" exclaimed her
+mother. "How fortunate that we should run across them, just now."
+
+"Which one is the count?" asked Maud Warren. She had taken very little
+interest in anything before. "I hope he is not the older man."
+
+"No; he is the slender, dark-haired one," returned Mrs. Smythe. "He is
+dressed in white."
+
+In the meantime Mr. Stuart had changed his seat. He had come to Palm
+Beach to enjoy his four "Automobile Girls." No fascinating widow should
+swerve him from his original plans. Like most hard-working successful
+men he loved a holiday like a schoolboy and resented deeply any
+interference with his pleasure.
+
+"Are my girls having a good time?" he queried, smiling into four
+charming faces.
+
+"Yes, indeed!" exclaimed four voices in chorus.
+
+"We thought the scenery beautiful in the Berkshires and along the Hudson
+river, Mr. Stuart. But this is the most beautiful of all!" cried Mollie,
+clasping her small hands ecstatically.
+
+"Do you suppose people ever really work here?" inquired Grace. "It is
+like fairy land. Everything happens by magic."
+
+"You are right, Grace. This is a land of pleasure," returned Mr. Stuart.
+"The only people who work are the employés in the hotels and the
+servants in the cottages."
+
+"Palm Beach is dedicated to pleasure," explained Ruth, "because it was
+by accident that it came to be here at all. So it can just as well be
+spared for an earthly paradise."
+
+"Why is Palm Beach an accident?" queried Mollie.
+
+"Years ago this was just a wild, desolate coast," Ruth went on. "Even
+now the wilderness is only a mile away. There was a wreck out there,
+somewhere, on the other side of the peninsula," she pointed toward the
+ocean. "A ship was loaded with cocoanuts, which were washed ashore. By
+and by the cocoanuts sprouted and grew into tall palm trees. So this
+barren shore was transformed into one of the most beautiful palm groves
+in the world."
+
+Mr. Stuart pinched his daughter's cheek. "You've been stealing a march
+on us, Mistress Ruth," he said. "You have been reading a guide book."
+
+Just then a shadow clouded the brilliant sunshine. The engineer of the
+launch glanced up uneasily.
+
+"You don't think it is going to rain, do you?" asked Mr. Warren.
+
+"It would be a very unusual thing if it did, sir," replied the man,
+without committing himself.
+
+A fresh wind had come up, bearing with it the fragrance of many flowers.
+It seemed to have blown over miles of lily beds and orange groves.
+Barbara closed her eyes as she breathed in the warm, scented air. "How
+easy to forget all responsibilities, in an enchanted place like this!"
+she thought. "How easy just to drift along."
+
+"Papa, do tell the man to turn back," said Maud in a voice that broke
+unpleasantly into Bab's reflections. "It's getting a little chilly. And
+besides, we must have tea this afternoon in the cocoanut grove."
+
+"Very well, my dear," replied her father, turning to give his order to
+the engineer.
+
+The launch swung around. Immediately the whole party spied another boat
+bobbing helplessly on the water. One of the men in it was leaning over
+examining the machinery of the frail craft. The other one, in white,
+stood at the side of the boat, scanning the water.
+
+No other launches were in sight. The many pleasure boats which had
+dotted the lake with flecks of white, only a few minutes before, had now
+put in to shore. A black cloud had spread itself over the whole sky,
+casting a dark and ominous shadow over the lake.
+
+As all the world knows--at least the part of the world which lives on
+pleasure waters--a strict etiquette prevails among these small boats.
+One boat always helps another in distress.
+
+The engineer of Mr. Warren's launch did not wait for orders. He turned
+at once toward the drifting craft.
+
+"Is your engine broken?" he asked, as the boats touched sides.
+
+The young man in white was the Count de Sonde himself. He looked
+decidedly relieved at the appearance of the rescuers. He removed his
+Panama hat with a flourish and bowed low to the women. The other man
+answered the boatman.
+
+"We are quite helpless, you see," the count ejaculated, shrugging his
+shoulders and raising his eyebrows at the same time. "My friend can do
+nothing."
+
+In the meantime the friend had arisen from the engine. He was examining
+the boatload of people with guarded interest.
+
+"How do you do, Count? How are you, Monsieur Duval?" called Mrs. De
+Lancey Smythe.
+
+It was not a time for conventional introductions. The boatman made a
+line fast from the small craft to the larger one. He meant to tow the
+smaller launch toward home.
+
+But Mrs. De Lancey Smythe persisted. Mr. Warren and his friends must
+meet the Count de Sonde and Monsieur Duval.
+
+Suddenly the heavens were shaken by a terrific clap of thunder.
+
+Mrs. Smythe gave a little scream. "I am always frightened during a
+storm," she averred. "Mr. Stuart, would it be too much to ask you to
+assist me into the cabin?"
+
+Miss Sallie glanced rather contemptuously at the other woman, and
+wondered if her fright were real. Mr. Stuart rose and courteously
+assisted Mrs. De Lancey Smythe into the tiny cabin, just as a driving
+sheet of rain bore down upon them.
+
+The "Automobile Girls" crouched in the centre of the boat. Maud and
+Marian followed Mrs. Smythe.
+
+"Make for the nearest boathouse!" called Mr. Warren to his engineer. "We
+can't get back to the hotel in such a storm as this."
+
+The storm now burst in all its West Indian fury. The waters were churned
+into foam. The wind whistled and roared. The two small boats tossed
+about on the water like chips.
+
+"We are just in time!" exclaimed Mr. Warren, as they at last reached the
+boathouse. "In another five minutes I believe we should have been
+swamped." He helped the women from the boat to the pier.
+
+"What an escape!" gasped Mrs. Smythe. "Marian, my darling, are you all
+right?"
+
+"Perfectly, Mama," replied her daughter rather scornfully. It was plain
+to the four "Automobile Girls" that Marian did not entirely approve of
+her mother's display of fear, and the tone in which she had answered
+told its own story.
+
+The little company sought the shelter of the boathouse. The two
+foreigners went with them. In one of the men, Bab recognized the
+stranger she had noticed that morning on the hotel piazza. Mrs. De
+Lancey Smythe introduced him as Monsieur Duval.
+
+"We were very lucky to have met you, sir," Mr. Duval said to Mr. Stuart.
+Bab noticed that he spoke very good English, with only a slight foreign
+accent. "I am afraid our boat would have sunk if you had not come to our
+rescue."
+
+Mr. Stuart bowed politely, but coldly. He was wondering if his girls and
+Miss Sallie would have bad colds from their wetting. They were standing
+apart from the others, laughing at their plight.
+
+The young Count de Sonde had joined Marian and her mother, as soon as he
+entered the boathouse, but Maud was with them. It was upon Maud that the
+count immediately bestowed his attention. He smiled upon her, until
+Maud's foolish head began to flutter. Just think of capturing the
+attentions of a real count so quickly! Mr. Warren saw his daughter's
+delight and frowned slightly. Maud must not get any foolish ideas about
+foreigners in her head. He would put an end to that nonsense. He was
+about to stride over and take charge of affairs when a man servant in
+plain livery appeared on the path near the boathouse door. He had come
+from the pretty villa, which was only a hundred yards back from the
+boathouse, set in a thick grove of palms. The man carried a large bundle
+of wraps and umbrellas. He paused respectfully when he reached the steps
+leading to the pavilion.
+
+"My lady would be glad if you would seek shelter from the storm in her
+house," he said in broken English to Mr. Warren.
+
+It was great fun to scamper through the pouring rain to the pretty
+villa. The foreign coats and capes kept everyone dry. Now that they were
+on land Mr. Warren's boat party had begun to regard their adventure
+somewhat lightly.
+
+Once on the porch of the villa they were ushered into a large,
+low-ceilinged room at one end of which a fire of pine knots was burning
+brightly. The room was empty. The newcomers clustered about the blaze to
+dry their soaked shoes.
+
+The room held very little furniture. Yet it appeared to Bab as one of
+the most beautiful rooms she had ever seen. A grand piano stood at one
+end, and a few graceful wicker chairs were scattered about the
+apartment. The room had an indescribable look of elegance. Was it the
+bare highly polished floor, with only the Persian rug to break its
+shining surface? Or was it the enormous bunch of daffodils in a cut
+glass bowl on the table that lent the place its charm? Bab did not know.
+On the mantelpiece between two tall brass candle-sticks stood a
+beautiful marble bust. Barbara afterwards learned that it was known as
+"The Head of an Unknown Lady."
+
+A handsome leather writing-case lay open on the table. It displayed on
+the inner side a large crest picked out in dull gold. The firelight
+shone on the gold outlines and threw them into dull relief.
+
+Bab saw the Frenchman, Monsieur Duval, walk over to this table. He
+examined the crest intently for a moment, then turned away.
+
+At this instant two women came in through the open door. The one, who
+was quite old, supported herself with a gold-headed mahogany cane. The
+other was young and very beautiful.
+
+The older woman was rather terrifying in aspect. She had a hooked nose
+and her bright, beady little eyes regarded the company with a look of
+amused tolerance.
+
+The younger woman came forward to meet her unknown guests without the
+slightest embarrassment or affectation. The "Automobile Girls" held
+their breath. Surely she was the most exquisite creature they had ever
+beheld.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III
+
+THE FAIR UNKNOWN
+
+
+"I am afraid you must be very cold and wet," the young woman said, in a
+clear sweet voice, with an accent that the girls had never heard before.
+She was graceful with an elegance of manner that to imaginative Bab
+seemed almost regal.
+
+Mr. Stuart went forward. "It is most kind and hospitable of you to take
+us in like this," he declared. "We would certainly have been very
+uncomfortable if we had stayed in the boathouse for such a length of
+time. We are deeply grateful to you."
+
+"Do sit down," the young woman answered. "And won't you have some tea?
+It may warm you." She pressed an electric bell in the wall. A man
+servant appeared, and she gave him her orders in German.
+
+The "Automobile Girls" clustered together in the window seat. Their
+unknown hostess sank into a low chair near them. Miss Sallie and Mrs. De
+Lancey Smythe were left to the mercy of the old lady with the beaked
+nose. Maud and the count withdrew to one corner of the room, where they
+chatted softly, the latter bent on displaying all his powers of
+fascination.
+
+"Are these your four daughters?" asked the young mistress of the villa,
+turning to Mr. Stuart, after a friendly glance at the "Automobile
+Girls."
+
+"No," Mr. Stuart replied, laughing and shaking his head. "I am sorry to
+say I can boast of only one daughter. The three other girls are her
+friends. But they are all my girls. At least I call them my 'Automobile
+Girls'!"
+
+"Ah," replied the young woman apparently puzzled. "How is it that you
+call them the 'Automobile Girls'? Do young girls run motor cars in your
+country? Their independence is quite wonderful, I think."
+
+"Ruth is our chauffeur," explained Bab, who was looking closely at the
+beautiful face of her hostess. The latter's dark brown hair was arranged
+in a braid and wound about her head like a coronet but it broke into
+little soft curls around her face. She had a small straight nose and the
+curve of her red lips was perfect. The coutour of her face was oval and
+her large dark eyes were touched with an undefinable sadness. She was
+tall and slender, and she wore a plain, white woolen frock that
+emphasized the lines of her graceful figure. The simplicity of her
+costume was not marred by a single ornament. Even her long, slender
+fingers were bare of rings.
+
+She turned to pretty Mollie, taking one of her small hands in her own
+cool fingers. "Do these little hands also run a motor car?" the hostess
+asked.
+
+Mollie looked long into the beautiful face. Somehow its hidden sadness
+touched her. Mollie's blue eyes filled with tears. She felt strangely
+timid.
+
+"Why, you must not be afraid of me, dear one," said the young woman. She
+gazed into Mollie's blue eyes appealingly, and softly pressed her hand.
+"I'm a girl like yourself, only I am much older. But I love younger
+girls very dearly. You must let me be your friend." To the amazement of
+the other girls this exquisite stranger bent over and kissed Mollie on
+the lips.
+
+"I should be very happy to have you for my friend," returned Mollie, a
+smile quivering through her tears. "And I wasn't the least bit
+frightened. I think perhaps it was the storm that made me so silly. Bab
+sometimes calls me a cry baby."
+
+"Which one of you is Bab? And what a pretty name that is!" exclaimed the
+young hostess.
+
+Barbara stepped forward with a friendly smile. Mr. Stuart then presented
+Grace and Ruth.
+
+But still their new friend did not reveal her identity.
+
+She was a foreigner. There was no doubt of that. She had spoken in
+German to her servant. Perhaps she was German? She confessed that this
+was her first visit to America. The climate of New York had driven her
+south. Yet she did not mention her name or her country.
+
+Presently the man servant returned to the room carrying a tea service.
+He was followed by a comely German maid, who carried a tray laden with
+buttered toast and a large dish of German cookies.
+
+The man lit the candles and a lamp covered with a yellow shade.
+
+A soft, mellow glow pervaded the beautiful room. There was a pleasant
+silence and all eyes were turned to their lovely young hostess, whose
+slender white hands busied themselves with the tea things.
+
+"A friendly cup of tea on a day like this, makes the whole world kin,"
+she said, smiling brightly at her guests. "It banishes sad thoughts and
+one grows cheerful, even though the weather behaves itself so badly."
+
+"We have a proverb," laughed Ruth, "that says 'it's an ill wind that
+blows no one good.' We should really thank the weather for misbehaving."
+
+"Ah, that is broad flattery," cried their hostess with a silvery laugh.
+"But oh so charming."
+
+"Do you not find it dull staying at an out-of-the-way place like this?"
+broke in Mrs. De Lancey Smythe, looking about her with a patronizing
+air. "I am quite sure I have never seen you at the Beach."
+
+The "Automobile Girls" exchanged lightning glances. Mrs. Smythe's abrupt
+remark jarred upon them, and simultaneously it occurred to them that she
+was distinctly underbred.
+
+Marian's face flushed, and she bit her lip. "I think this quiet place
+must be enchanting," she said almost defiantly. "I hate hotels."
+
+"Really, Marian," said her mother coldly. "Your opinion has not been
+solicited."
+
+"They're going to quarrel," thought Barbara. "How disagreeable that
+woman is. She is so snippy, and calculating and deceitful. I rather like
+Marian, though."
+
+But their hostess averted any domestic altercation by saying sweetly. "I
+am indeed a stranger, here, but I came for rest and quiet, therefore I
+have little desire to frequent the Beach or its hotels."
+
+"Quite true," responded Mrs. De Lancey Smythe, and hastily turning her
+attention to the imposing looking old woman with the gold headed cane
+she said, "You are German, I presume."
+
+"Why German?" replied the old lady, observing her questioner with a
+dangerous glitter in her small black eyes.
+
+Mrs. De Lancey Smythe showed signs of confusion.
+
+"I thought you were Germans because you spoke German to your servant,"
+she said, trying to look haughty and thus carry off what promised to be
+an unpleasant situation.
+
+"Ah, yes," returned her antagonist. "But does it follow that one is of
+the same country as one's servants? We have also employed both French
+and English maids."
+
+Mrs. De Lancey Smythe did not deem it wise to continue the conversation.
+She therefore turned her attention to Mr. Duval who had been listening
+to the conversation with a curious smile on his clever face.
+
+Miss Sallie was delighted with the strange old woman. Her abruptness was
+amusing. Miss Stuart began discussing a number of current topics with
+her in an impersonal, well-bred manner, neither woman showing the
+slightest curiosity about the other's personal affairs.
+
+"Count de Sonde!" called Mrs. De Lancey Smythe suddenly.
+
+There was an immediate lull in the conversation.
+
+The young mistress of the villa stared at the "Automobile Girls." Her
+face turned pale. She leaned back in her chair. "Count de Sonde!" she
+whispered to herself.
+
+Mollie was at her new friend's side in an instant. "I am afraid you are
+ill," she suggested. "Can I do anything for you?"
+
+"No, no, dear child," replied the other. "It was only a momentary
+faintness. But did I not hear some one call the Count de Sonde? Is he
+here?"
+
+"Oh, yes," returned Mollie politely. "He is that young man in white, who
+is now talking with Mrs. De Lancey Smythe."
+
+Her hostess turned quickly. She looked a long time at the young count.
+"Who is the other man near him?" she next asked.
+
+Mollie was again her informant. "He is a Mr. Duval," she explained. "He
+and the Count de Sonde are at the same hotel together."
+
+At this moment, Maud Warren, who had noted her father's displeased look,
+decided to join the "Automobile Girls," who were grouped around their
+hostess.
+
+"Do you know," she said with an air of triumph, "the Count de Sonde has
+invited Papa and me and the De Lancey Smythes to visit him at his
+chateau in France next summer?"
+
+The tea-cup of their hostess crashed to the floor. It broke into small
+pieces.
+
+"Don't trouble to pick up the pieces," she protested to Mr. Stuart.
+"Johann will do it. I am very careless. So you expect to visit France
+next summer?" she continued, turning her attention to Maud.
+
+"Yes, Papa and I shall go," Maud replied. "It would be quite novel to
+visit a chateau."
+
+"Delightful. But where is the chateau of the De Sonde family?" inquired
+the other young woman.
+
+Maud hesitated. "I am not sure that I know," she replied. "I believe the
+count said it was in Brittany. The count's family is one of the oldest
+in France."
+
+"I have not yet had the pleasure of meeting the count," suggested Maud's
+hostess. "Perhaps you will present him to me."
+
+In a few moments the young count was leaning gracefully against the
+mantelpiece. He was talking with the beautiful stranger, whose name was
+still withheld from her visitors. A little later Monsieur Duval joined
+them.
+
+"Oh, yes, I hasten to assure you, it is quite, quite old," the count
+explained. He was talking of his family in Brittany.
+
+"How far back does your family go?" went on his unknown questioner.
+
+The count cleared his throat and choked over his fresh cup of tea.
+
+"My friend's family goes back to the eleventh century," answered Duval
+quietly. The count was still coughing violently.
+
+"And you are the last of your line?" continued his hostess. She was
+addressing the count. "It is a pity for such an illustrious race to die
+out. I suppose you will marry?"
+
+She looked at the young man with such grave sweetness that he smiled
+uneasily and shifted his gaze.
+
+"I hope to marry some day, Mademoiselle," he mumbled.
+
+"You have some very old families in Germany also, have you not?"
+inquired Monsieur Duval, looking searchingly at the young woman.
+
+Did she pause a moment before she answered? Bab and Ruth both thought
+so.
+
+"In what European country are there not old families, Monsieur?" she
+replied courteously. "In Italy the old families trace their lineage to
+the gods of mythology. But I am interested in a young country like this
+America."
+
+"Then you should go to Chicago, if you wish to see a really American
+city," cried Ruth. "Of course, Aunt Sallie and Father and I think our
+Chicago is greater than New York, because it is our home."
+
+"De Lancey Hall, in Virginia, is my family home," drawled Mrs. De Lancey
+Smythe, with a little insolent air of pride. "The De Lanceys were a
+titled French family before they came to this country."
+
+"How very interesting!" exclaimed the youthful hostess, in an enigmatic
+tone. "Do people drop their titles in this great free country of yours?
+It is much better, I think. Titles mean but little anywhere." She ended
+her words with a little, serious frown.
+
+"The best heritage that I can lay claim to is that of being an
+American," exclaimed Ruth, with enthusiasm. "America for the Americans!
+Three cheers for the red, white and blue!"
+
+"You are a true patriot. Is it not so?" laughed the hostess, patting
+Ruth's shoulder. "Your great free country is so wonderful. Its liberty
+is boundless." She sighed, and for a moment seemed wrapped in thought.
+Then turning to Mr. Stuart and Mr. Warren asked if they would have more
+tea.
+
+"No thank you," replied Mr. Stuart. "In fact I believe we had better
+begin to think about getting back to our hotel. The rain has stopped,
+and we need trespass upon your hospitality no further."
+
+"It has been a pleasure to meet you and your 'Automobile Girls,'" the
+young woman replied. Then she added very softly so that Mr. Stuart and
+Mollie who stood with her hand clasped in that of the stranger, alone,
+heard: "Won't you bring them to see me in the near future?"
+
+"Oh how lovely!" breathed Mollie.
+
+"We shall be very happy, indeed to come," Mr. Stuart replied.
+
+"I thank you for your charming hospitality, Mademoiselle," broke in the
+suave tones of Mr. Duval, who with the count at his heels had stepped
+unnoticed to the young woman's side. "Am I presumptuous in venturing to
+ask if it is your pleasure that we should know to whom we are indebted?"
+
+"Ah to be sure. I have been what you call, very stupid," laughed the
+unknown. "Pray pardon me." Gliding over to the side of the stern old
+woman, she took her hand. "Permit me to present my very dear friend,
+Madame de Villiers. I am the Countess Sophia von Stolberg."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV
+
+THE COMPACT
+
+
+"Girls!" exclaimed Ruth, who lay curled up on the foot of her bed in a
+pale blue silk kimono. "I feel like offering a libation to the Storm
+King to-night for sending us that squall."
+
+"Why?" inquired Grace, who was not gifted with an Oriental imagination.
+
+"Because, if there had been no storm, there would have been no Countess
+Sophia," replied her friend.
+
+"She is hard to understand, but she is so beautiful, so gentle and so
+noble," observed Barbara.
+
+"And she kissed me!" cried Mollie.
+
+"As, yes, Mollie darling, she had a fearful crush on you," laughed Ruth.
+"We are already green with jealousy. It's those golden baby curls of
+yours that do the business, I suppose. First, it was the lovely Mrs.
+Cartwright you won from us at Newport. Now your cerulean eyes have
+hypnotized the Countess Sophia. What shall we do to her, girls?"
+
+"Destroy her beauty!" cried Barbara. "Cut off her curls and give her two
+black eyes."
+
+The three girls pounced on Mollie. There was a real tom-boy romp which
+ended in a burst of joyous laughter. For Miss Sallie's familiar rap-tap
+was heard on the door. Her voice was raised in mild protest:
+
+"Children, remember that this is a hotel."
+
+The girls subsided.
+
+"Do you suppose it would be good form to call on the countess to-morrow,
+when we met her only this afternoon?" asked Ruth, as soon as she had
+regained her breath.
+
+"It would be rather rushing things," answered Barbara.
+
+"If you will be good, and promise not to lay violent hands on me again,
+I will tell you something," Mollie volunteered.
+
+"We promise," cried three voices in unison.
+
+"The countess is going to ask us to luncheon to-morrow. She whispered it
+to me just before we left her villa this afternoon."
+
+"Oh, joy!" exclaimed Ruth. "Do you mean that she intends to invite the
+entire party--the De Lancey Smythes and all that aggregation?"
+
+"No," Mollie declared, answering Ruth's previous question. "The countess
+intends to invite only Miss Sallie, Mr. Stuart and the 'Automobile
+Girls.'"
+
+"But what are we to do about Maud Warren?" queried Ruth. "Father has
+promised Mr. Warren we would help him out with Maud. Here we are already
+trying to shake her off. If we are going to see a great deal of the
+countess, how shall we manage? I am sure the stern old dowager would
+never endure Maud's grown up manner for a moment. And Maud won't give up
+those De Lancey Smythes."
+
+"I think it would be a good idea to take the Countess Sophia into our
+confidence, if we have an opportunity," suggested Barbara. "It would not
+be a betrayal of trust. Because what we wish to accomplish is to
+persuade Maud Warren to see the difference between really well-bred
+people like the countess and those who pretend to be. I think the
+Smythes are pretenders, the mother at least. She seems to be continually
+on the alert. I watched her yesterday, and that high and mighty air that
+she assumes is a cloak to hide her real character. It seems to me that
+she and that Duval man have some sort of secret understanding. I
+think----" Barbara paused.
+
+"Well, Sherlock, what do you think?" queried Ruth impertinently. "And
+when you unearth her family skeleton may I go along and play Doctor
+Watson?"
+
+"How ridiculous you are, Ruth," returned Barbara, laughing. "I suppose I
+deserve to be teased. I'm always suspecting people's motives. But really
+I do believe that that Mrs. Smythe has a hurtful influence over Maud.
+Mr. Warren doesn't like to have Maud with her, either. You heard the way
+he spoke this morning."
+
+"Yes," exclaimed Ruth. "We also heard Miss Maud defy him. She is
+dreadfully spoiled, and we shall be obliged to handle her very
+carefully. If she even suspects we are trying to reform her, she will
+shun our beneficial society as she would the plague."
+
+"I believe I could bear that misfortune," sighed Mollie.
+
+But Barbara was serious. "I am truly sorry for Maud Warren," she
+declared. "I think she is just like a blind person. She can't see
+anything that is good and true. She thinks of nothing but money, titles
+and sham society. I don't see how we can do her any good."
+
+"Well, her father thinks we can," Grace added. "He told me on our way
+back from the launch party, that he hoped we would be friends with Maud,
+for she needed the companionship of sensible girls. He said that he
+hoped she would take more interest in outdoor sports, and drop some of
+the newfangled society ideas she has adopted."
+
+"I'll tell you a secret," said Barbara slowly. "I think that Maud was
+impressed with the Count de Sonde, or rather his title."
+
+"And the count seemed to be equally impressed with Maud," interposed
+Ruth. "I believe he is one of those foreigners with no money, and plenty
+of title that one reads about in the Sunday papers."
+
+"Some of them don't have even the title," said Mollie with a worldly air
+that contrasted oddly with her baby face. "They are just waiters who
+pretend that they are real counts."
+
+"Hear, hear," cried Ruth, "Mollie the worldly wise is holding forth!"
+
+"Well, you needn't make fun of me, Ruth," said Mollie stoutly. "It's all
+true. I read about one last week who married a rich American girl. She
+fell in love with his title. After she had married him she found out
+that his name was Jean, something or other, that he had been a waiter,
+and was wanted by the police for forgery. Just think girls how
+dreadfully she must have felt!"
+
+"I should say so," averred Grace, who always championed Mollie's cause.
+
+"What's your opinion of the Count de Sonde, Barbara?" asked Ruth.
+
+"He didn't impress me favorably," replied Bab. "He's too artificial, and
+too conceited. He reminds me of a comic opera Frenchman. He looks as
+though he were ready to run about on his toes and shrug his shoulders at
+the slightest pretext."
+
+"That exactly describes him," Ruth agreed. "I imagine him trilling a
+silly French song:
+
+  "'Bonjour, mesdames! bonjour, messieurs!
+  Je suis le Comte de Sonde!'"
+
+Ruth bowed low, first to Mollie and then to Grace. She shrugged her
+dainty shoulders in a perfect imitation of the count.
+
+"But what about Monsieur Duval?" queried Mollie.
+
+"He's the backbone of the little count," said Barbara. "He's the brains
+and strength of the company. If there is any little game to be played at
+Palm Beach--look out for Mr. Duval!"
+
+"But do you suppose they really have a game to play?" persisted Ruth.
+
+Bab shook her head. "I don't know. I suppose I am only joking," she
+answered. "But did you notice how often Mr. Duval came to the count's
+rescue? He helped him out of a number of tight places. Of course it is
+ridiculous to suppose those men have any scheme afoot. They are
+certainly not thieves, like Harry Townsend at Newport. I wonder what
+they are after?"
+
+"Oh, nothing, Bab. You are too mysterious," protested Mollie. "I thought
+we were talking about Maud Warren and how we could best make friends
+with her."
+
+"Girls, let's enter into a solemn compact," Ruth suggested, lowering her
+voice to a whisper in order to persuade the other girls to listen.
+
+"What kind of compact, child?" Bab demanded.
+
+"A compact to do our best for Maud Warren," said conscientious Ruth. "I
+tell you, girls, it won't be easy, for Maud isn't our kind. And you know
+how we like to keep together and don't care much for any outside girl. I
+know we shall have to make a good many sacrifices. But Maud must not run
+around with the Smythes and that little French count all the time. Let's
+make a compact to do our best for Maud. Come, join hands."
+
+The four girls clasped hands. They could not foresee into what
+difficulties this compact would lead them.
+
+Tap! tap! Miss Sallie knocked again at the door.
+
+"Go to bed at once; it is very late," she ordered.
+
+Ruth dreamed that night that the four girls were sitting in a circle
+with the Countess Sophia von Stolberg. They had hold of one another's
+hands. They were repeating their vow about Maud. Suddenly they were
+interrupted. Monsieur Duval appeared in their midst. The Countess Sophia
+saw the Frenchman. She gave a cry of terror and fainted.
+
+Ruth awakened with a start. The night was still. The moon shone brightly
+through the open windows and the air was filled with the perfume of
+magnolia blossoms.
+
+"I wonder what the Countess Sophia's history is?" thought Ruth sleepily,
+as she dropped into slumber once more.
+
+At her villa, looking across the moonlit lake, the beautiful young
+countess was at that moment writing a letter. It was a long letter,
+penned in close fine handwriting. When she had finished she slipped the
+letter into an envelope, which she addressed carefully to "M. Le Comte
+Frederic de Sonde."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V
+
+THE DAUGHTER OF MRS. DE LANCEY SMYTHE
+
+
+Breakfast was hardly over next morning before a note on thin foreign
+paper was handed to Miss Sallie Stuart. She read it aloud: it asked for
+the pleasure of their company at luncheon. It was signed "Sophia von
+Stolberg." The messenger would wait for the answer. Mr. Stuart was
+included in the invitation.
+
+"There's only one answer to that note," laughed Mr. Stuart, scanning the
+four eager faces of the "Automobile Girls." "Shall I translate your
+expressions into a single word? It is 'yes,' my hearties."
+
+"Did you think they would fail to accept?" teased Miss Sallie. "Look at
+the foolish young things! They have all fallen in love with the countess
+at first sight, and can hardly wait for one o'clock to arrive. But I
+will send our acceptance at once, so as not to keep the man waiting."
+Miss Stuart hurried off to the writing room of the hotel.
+
+So the girls were alone when they were joined on the piazza by Mrs. De
+Lancey Smythe and Marian.
+
+"Good morning, my dears," said Mrs. De Lancey Smythe, with an attempt at
+affability. "Isn't it delightful after the storm?"
+
+"Very," answered Ruth, rather shortly.
+
+"Have you seen dear Maud and her father this morning?" pursued Mrs.
+Smythe, ignoring Ruth's lack of cordiality.
+
+"No," replied Ruth. "Have you?"
+
+"I saw them a few minutes ago, and they were engaged in a family
+discussion," replied the older woman. "Such discussions are most
+disagreeable to me. Marian and I never have them. For some stupid
+reason, Mr. Warren is opposed to his daughter's receiving attentions
+from the Count de Sonde. I have assured him that I know the count well.
+He belongs to an old and illustrious family. But tell me, what is your
+opinion of the Countess Sophia von Stolberg? Do you think she is an
+impostor?"
+
+"An impostor!" exclaimed Ruth indignantly. "I think she is simply
+perfect. I never met any one in my life who impressed me so much."
+
+"Beware, my dear, that your feelings do not run away with you," warned
+Mrs. De Lancey Smythe with asperity. "I have heard rumors, since I saw
+you last night. There are suspicious circumstances connected with this
+countess. She may very possibly be an impostor."
+
+"Who told you such a dreadful falsehood?" demanded Ruth. She was almost
+choking with anger. But Barbara had joined her. Bab's firm fingers on
+Ruth's arm warned her to be careful.
+
+"The man who told me is in a position to know the truth. He is a clever
+man of the world, a foreigner himself," replied Mrs. Smythe
+triumphantly.
+
+"I am afraid I cannot credit his story," replied Ruth, with more
+composure. "I cannot forget that we accepted the countess's hospitality
+yesterday and we are to have the pleasure of accepting more of it
+to-day. My father and Aunt Sallie, and we four girls, are to have
+luncheon with the Countess von Stolberg and Madame de Villiers."
+
+Ruth drew Barbara's arm through hers. They moved away from Mrs. De
+Lancey Smythe.
+
+But Mrs. De Lancey Smythe had said her say and left a sting, and she
+smiled maliciously as the two girls walked away.
+
+"I can't endure that woman, Barbara," exclaimed Ruth. "I'll lose my head
+completely if she attacks our beautiful countess again."
+
+"She is too disagreeable to notice," answered Bab vehemently. "Here
+comes Maud Warren. Shall we ask her to take a walk with us along the
+Beach?"
+
+"I suppose so," assented Ruth, whose enthusiasm had somewhat cooled over
+night. "I don't want her. But we ought to be polite."
+
+The two girls greeted Maud Warren cordially. There was a discontented
+line across that young woman's brow, and an angry look in her pale blue
+eyes.
+
+"I am looking for the count," she declared defiantly.
+
+The girls instinctively knew that Maud was disobeying her father. Mr.
+Warren had just finished lecturing Maud and had commanded that she cut
+the count's acquaintance.
+
+"I saw the count a few minutes ago. He was starting off with his friend
+for a walk," explained Bab gently. "Won't you take a stroll on the beach
+with us, Maud? It is such a perfect morning."
+
+"Oh, do come, Maud," begged Ruth, with a charming, cordial smile. Ruth's
+sweet nature was again asserting itself.
+
+"Yes, do," cried Mollie and Grace, who had just joined the little group
+of girls.
+
+Maud's face softened. "You are awfully nice," she said. Maud was a
+little taken aback by so much friendliness. She had been spoiled all her
+life, and had never had real friends among young girls. People had
+thought her disagreeable and overbearing, and she had held herself
+aloof, displaying a degree of hauteur that admitted of no friendship.
+
+"Let's get our hats and go immediately. It will soon be time to go in
+bathing," suggested Bab. Barbara never missed a swim if she could help
+it.
+
+"All right, old water dog," Ruth agreed. "Meet us on the piazza looking
+toward the ocean, Maud. We will be back in ten minutes."
+
+The girls were back on the piazza at the appointed time. Maud was there.
+But with her were Marian De Lancey Smythe, and the Count de Sonde.
+
+"What a nuisance!" exclaimed Ruth under her breath. But there was
+nothing to be done; therefore the girls decided to accept this undesired
+addition to their number with the best possible grace.
+
+The entire party started down the avenue of palms toward the ocean.
+
+The "Automobile Girls" were thrilled with the beauty of the great
+stretch of blue water. Marian De Lancey Smythe, too, had a soul stirring
+within her. It had been choked by the false principles and ostentations
+that her mother had taught her. But Marian was not a stupid girl. Her
+wits had been sharpened by years of managing and deceit. She had the
+sense to see the difference between herself and the four sweet,
+unaffected "Automobile Girls," and she knew the difference was in their
+favor.
+
+Under her fashionable exterior a really simple heart beat in Marian's
+bosom, and she was filled with a wild desire to shake off her mother's
+despotic rule, and for once let her real self come to the surface. As
+she strolled moodily along beside Barbara she reflected bitterly that
+while others had been given all, she had received nothing.
+
+She contrasted the hand to mouth existence that she and her mother led
+with the full, cheerful life of the "Automobile Girls," and a wave of
+shame swept over her at the deceptions and subterfuges that were second
+nature to her mother, which she felt reasonably certain that no really
+honest person would practise. Her life was a sham and a mockery, and
+behind it was the ever present fear that her mother would some day
+overstep all bounds, and do something to bring the crushing weight of
+the law down upon them. There were so many things that Marian did not
+understand. Her mother never said more about her affairs than was
+absolutely necessary. She only knew that they were always poor, always
+struggling to appear to be that which they were not. She had been
+commanded to dissemble, to lie, to do without a murmur, whatever her
+mother asked of her, and her better self sometimes rose in a revolt
+against her mother, that was almost hatred.
+
+As she walked gloomily along wrapped in her own bitter reflections, she
+sighed deeply. Bab who was walking with her glanced quickly at Marian,
+then with one of her swift impulses, she put out her hand and clasped
+that of the other girl.
+
+"Are you unhappy, Marian?" she asked.
+
+"No," replied Marian. But her emotions got the better of her and she
+choked back her sobs with an angry gulp. Then feeling the pressure of
+Bab's sympathetic hand she said brokenly, "I mean, yes. At least, I
+don't know exactly what is the matter with me. I think I am
+homesick--homesick for the things I have never had, and never expect to
+have."
+
+"I'm sorry," said Bab, still holding Marian's hand, yet looking away, so
+she should not see Marian's rebellious tears. "But why do you think you
+won't have the things you want? If you keep on wishing for a thing the
+wish is sure to come true some day."
+
+Marian's set face softened at these words. "Do you really think that?"
+she asked. "Do you suppose that things will ever be any different for
+me? Oh, if you only knew how I hate all this miserable pretense."
+
+"Why, Marian!" exclaimed Bab. "What is the matter? I had no idea you
+were so unhappy."
+
+"Of course you hadn't," replied Marian. "Because I never dare let any
+one know my real feelings. I never have hated my life as I do since I
+have known you girls. You are just girls. That's the beauty of it, and
+you have folks who love you and want you to stay girls and not ape grown
+up people all the time. I'd like to wear my hair in one braid, and run
+and romp and have a good time generally. Look at me. I look as though I
+were twenty-two at least, and I'm only seventeen. I have to wear my hair
+on top of my head and pretend to be something remarkable when I want to
+be just a plain every day girl. It's intolerable. I won't stand it any
+longer. I don't see why I was ever born."
+
+"Poor Marian," soothed Bab. "Don't feel so badly. It will all come right
+some day. Let me be your friend. I believe I understand just how you
+feel. Perhaps your mother may----"
+
+"Don't speak of my mother!" ejaculated the girl passionately. "Sometimes
+I hate her. Do you know, Barbara, I often wonder if she is really my
+mother. Away back in my mind there is the memory of another face. I
+don't know whether I have only dreamed it, or where it came from, but I
+like to think of that sweet face as belonging to my mother."
+
+Bab looked at Marian in a rather startled way. What a strange girl she
+was, to be sure. Suppose Mrs. De Lancey Smythe were not her mother.
+Suppose that Marian had been stolen when a baby. Bab's active brain
+immediately began to spin a web of circumstances about Marian Smythe.
+
+"Marian," she began. But she never finished for just then a piercing cry
+rang out.
+
+Nursemaids with children began running along the sands. Another nurse
+had run out into the water. She was wildly waving her arms and pointing
+to a small object well out on the waves. Barbara saw it for just an
+instant. Then it disappeared. She and Marian both recognized what it
+was. A child's curly head had risen to the surface of the water, and
+then had sunk out of sight.
+
+Quick as a flash Barbara kicked off her white canvas pumps and threw hat
+and linen coat on the ground.
+
+Extending her hands before her, she ran out into the water. Marian ran
+blindly after her. The Count de Sonde was the only man near that part of
+the beach. He was behaving in a most remarkable manner. Entirely
+forgetful of the blood of scores of noble ancestors that ran in his
+veins, he had taken to his heels and his small figure was seen flying up
+the beach away from the water.
+
+However, Bab was not thinking of aid. She made straight for the little
+head, which rose for the second time above the waves.
+
+When Barbara reached the spot where she had last seen the child's head
+she dived beneath the surface of the water.
+
+Marian thought that Barbara, too, had lost her life. She began wringing
+her hands and calling for help. In her excitement she had waded to her
+neck in the water and was clinging to the life rope. She did not know
+how to swim, but she had a wild idea that she ought to follow in
+Barbara's lead, and now she clung to the rope and anxiously watched
+Barbara's movements. Bab in the meantime, had dived into deep water and
+was groping blindly for the little figure. At last she seized the child
+by the arm and with lungs bursting rose to the top of the water, when
+suddenly she was struck a fearful and unlooked for blow. She had not
+reckoned with the life line and with the little fellow in her arms had
+come in violent contact with it. She reeled and would have gone under
+but a hand grasped her firmly by the arm and pulled her from under the
+treacherous rope. She had just sense enough to hand the child over to
+Marian Smythe and seize the rope herself. Then she filled her exhausted
+lungs with the fresh air.
+
+On the shore Grace and Mollie were running up and down the sands
+imploring some one to save Bab. Ruth wished to rush out into the water.
+But she knew she could not reach the two exhausted girls.
+
+As for the Count de Sonde, he was nowhere to be seen, while Maud Warren
+stood on the shore helplessly wringing her hands.
+
+In a short time the beach was crowded with people. Marian and Bab had
+brought the little boy in to his nurse. The hotel physician soon took
+the nurse and the baby both away, and the crowd followed them.
+
+Bab flung herself down in the warm sand. Mollie, Ruth and Grace hung
+over her anxiously.
+
+"I'll just rest here a moment," Bab said faintly. "I want to get my
+breath. But do see to Marian. She is a brave girl. She saved my life. I
+struck against the life rope, and would have gone under with the little
+boy had she not caught my arm and held me up."
+
+"You dear, dear girl," said Mollie with a half sob. "How splendid of
+you!"
+
+Then the three girls surrounded Marian and hugged her until they were
+almost as wet as she was.
+
+"I didn't do anything remarkable," she averred, almost shyly. "I went
+into the water after Barbara before I realized what I was doing. I just
+had to catch hold of her arm, because I saw that she was going under.
+You girls are perfectly sweet to me and I am happier to-day than I've
+ever been before."
+
+"Marian," called the cold tones of her mother. "Go up to the hotel at
+once and change your clothing. Your appearance is disgraceful."
+
+Mrs. De Lancey Smythe stalked majestically over to the little group,
+frowning her displeasure. "Whatever possessed you and Miss Thurston to
+rush madly into the water after a child you never saw before?" she said
+to Marian, whose happy face had darkened at her mother's first word.
+"Really, Marian, dear, you are at times past understanding."
+
+"Mrs. Smythe," said Barbara coldly. "We could never have been so
+heartless as to stand on the shore and wait for some one else to rescue
+that little child. I felt it my duty to make some effort and I am sure
+that Marian did."
+
+"Really, Miss Thurston," retorted Mrs. Smythe, "I addressed my remark to
+Marian."
+
+"Yes," said Bab, her eyes flashing, "but you included me in it,
+therefore I felt justified in answering it."
+
+For a moment there was a tense silence. Bab stood looking composedly
+into the angry eyes of Mrs. De Lancey Smythe. Then Ruth said, with
+superb indifference. "Oh, come on, girls, don't waste your whole
+morning, here. Bab, you'll catch cold. Hurry right up to the hotel with
+Marian. Good-bye, Marian, we'll see you later."
+
+Utterly ignoring Mrs. Smythe, Ruth turned on her heel and accompanied by
+Grace and Mollie continued the stroll along the beach.
+
+"My I'd hate to meet Mrs. De Lancey Smythe alone on a dark night,"
+remarked Mollie, with a giggle. "Didn't she look ready to scratch Bab's
+eyes out, though."
+
+"She found her match in Mistress Barbara," observed Grace. "She can't
+intimidate our Bab."
+
+Bab hurried along the beach toward the hotel full of sympathy for the
+luckless Marian, and vowing within herself to be a true friend to the
+girl who had been cheated of her girlhood.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI
+
+THE COUNTESS SOPHIA
+
+
+To be at luncheon with a real countess? What bliss!
+
+Not one of the "Automobile Girls" doubted, for an instant, the
+genuineness of the Countess Sophia von Stolberg. Mrs. De Lancey Smythe's
+calumnies carried no weight with the "Automobile Girls."
+
+To-day the countess was more gentle, more beautiful than she had seemed
+at first. And there was less formality in her manner.
+
+Mollie, who sat at her left at the luncheon table, quite lost the
+feeling of awe that had taken possession of her the afternoon before.
+
+Opposite the countess, at the other end of the table, sat the formidable
+Madame de Villiers, the old lady with the hooked nose and the bird-like
+eyes. She, too, seemed to feel more amiable, for she watched her young
+guests with an amused smile.
+
+"Do you know what I believe Madame de Villiers was thinking all the time
+we were at luncheon?" Ruth asked her friends, when they were discussing
+their visit the following day. "The amused look on her face seemed to
+say: 'This is just another of the countess's pranks, asking these
+strangers to luncheon. But if they amuse her--why not!'"
+
+Madame de Villiers, however, found Miss Sallie Stuart much to her
+liking. Perhaps this was because Miss Sallie was not in the least afraid
+of her, nor inclined to shrink from her, as so many people did.
+
+The story of the morning's adventure had been told. The countess leaned
+admiringly over the great bunch of yellow daffodils in the centre of the
+table and smiled at Bab. Barbara's brown curls were still damp from
+their recent wetting. "Were there no men on that part of the beach when
+the baby was drowning? Why did you have to risk your life in that way?"
+the countess asked.
+
+"There were no men near," Ruth replied. "You see, it was very early in
+the morning. Only the nurse girls and children were abroad."
+
+"There was one man present!" exclaimed Mollie, with a spark of anger in
+her usually gentle blue eyes. "But he was a coward and ran away."
+
+"The Count de Sonde! Oh, yes," continued Ruth, "I had forgotten him."
+
+The countess look startled.
+
+"The Count de Sonde!" she repeated in a puzzled fashion. "He refused to
+help? He ran away?" An expression of incredulity crossed her face.
+
+"He most certainly did run," Mollie declared firmly. "I almost fell on
+my knees to beg him to save Bab. But he did not even take time to refuse
+me. He simply ran away, so as to live to fight another day, I suppose."
+
+"The Count de Sonde!" the young countess returned. "Ah, yes, he is the
+young Frenchman who was here yesterday. Then he is not a friend of
+yours?"
+
+"Certainly not, Countess Sophia," explained Mr. Stuart. "The young man
+is only a chance acquaintance, whom my friend Mr. Warren rescued from a
+difficulty yesterday."
+
+"I, also, am but a chance acquaintance," smiled the young countess.
+
+"Only you were the rescuer, and he was the rescued!" exclaimed Mollie
+quickly, looking fondly at her pretty hostess, who pressed her hand
+under the table.
+
+"We are not in the least interested in the count," Ruth remarked
+bluntly. "We are civil to him because we are trying to help some one."
+
+The countess looked puzzled.
+
+Mr. Stuart laughed. "My dear Countess," he explained, "the 'Automobile
+Girls' are not exactly Knights of the Round Table, but they have a kind
+of league of their own. I think they have formed a sort of Helping Hand
+Society. They have a pretty good theory that there is no reason why boys
+should enjoy all the adventures and thrilling experiences. If there is
+anything to be done, why, do it! Isn't that the motto, girls? I think
+the countess would be amazed if she knew what you have been through in
+the way of adventure. Now, they have undertaken to look after a
+misguided maiden. And I think they are rather piling on the horrors in
+her case."
+
+"Now, Father, you've no right to tease," protested Ruth. "You are the
+very person who made us promise to stand by Maud Warren through thick
+and thin."
+
+"So I did," agreed Mr. Stuart. "But I had no romantic notions that Maud
+was to be protected from the Count de Sonde. I only consented to have
+you persuade Maud from certain undesirable associates by showing her how
+much more desirable you are. Now, I plainly see the object of your
+protective association has changed."
+
+"Now, Father, you are teasing," exclaimed his daughter.
+
+"How can you accuse me of any such thing?" replied Mr. Stuart, his eyes
+twinkling.
+
+"He always teases," Ruth explained to the countess and Madame de
+Villiers. "It's second nature to him. He can't help it. But putting
+aside all jesting, I am going to speak very plainly about several
+things. I am sorry to be obliged to backbite, but really and truly we
+don't like Mrs. De Lancey Smythe. She is the most disagreeable person we
+know, and we are going to try gradually to wean Maud Warren from her.
+Maud thinks that she is wonderful and a great society leader, but I
+think if one made careful inquiry into the matter, one would find her
+name among those missing from the social world."
+
+"Ruth, my dear," expostulated Miss Stuart. "You are entirely too
+impetuous!"
+
+"Do allow her to go on, Miss Stuart," begged Madame de Villiers. "She is
+one after my own heart. It is refreshing to find some one who is not
+afraid to speak plainly."
+
+"Well," continued Ruth, highly elated at receiving the approbation of
+the stern old woman. "We are going to checkmate Mrs. D. L. S. at her own
+game. She is trying to throw Maud in line with her own schemes. Enter
+the 'Automobile Girls.' Exit the enemy. The first battle was fought on
+the beach this morning, and the situation was strongly defended to the
+last word by General Barbara Thurston."
+
+"What do you mean, Ruth?" interrupted her father gravely.
+
+Then Ruth launched forth with the account of Mrs. De Lancey Smythe's
+rudeness to Bab and Bab's reply. "Marian is all right," concluded Ruth,
+"but her mother is an entirely different proposition."
+
+"So it would seem," murmured the countess thoughtfully. "But suppose the
+count is really an eligible person, and has fallen in love, in earnest
+with Miss Warren, and suppose that Miss Warren truly loves him, what
+then? Would Mr. Warren still be opposed to the marriage?"
+
+"I don't know," replied Ruth doubtfully. "But you see Maud is a girl,
+and Mr. Warren feels that she is too young to know her own mind. He is
+afraid that the count's title has dazzled her, and he does not like
+foreigners. He thinks we may be able to disabuse Maud of some of her
+sentimental ideas. Last night we four girls organized a secret society
+for the suppression of fortune hunters, and we thought perhaps you might
+help us----"
+
+"Ruth, my dear child!" protested Miss Sallie greatly shocked.
+
+But old Madame de Villiers' eyes gleamed with amusement.
+
+"Indeed, I shall be most happy to become a member of your secret
+society," rejoined the countess. "How exciting! It must be a real secret
+society, if we are to be serious. Let me see? We should arrange signals
+and plan a campaign. If I am right, Miss Maud Warren needs to be treated
+very delicately and carefully, or she is likely to rebel. Is this not
+so?"
+
+"That is just what we agreed last night," Ruth confessed.
+
+"But how are we going to prove that Count de Sonde is a fortune-hunter?"
+argued Mollie. "For all we know, he may be immensely rich as well as
+illustrious."
+
+"Oh, we shall have to prove that the count is not really in love with
+Mademoiselle Warren," answered the countess, pinching Mollie's cheek.
+She was entering into their little game with a curious zest.
+
+"Or you might prove that he is not a count," interposed Madame de
+Villiers, with an inscrutable expression on her grim old face.
+
+"Do you believe that he is an impostor, Madame de Villiers?" inquired
+Miss Sallie.
+
+For a brief instant the countess's eyes met those of Madame de Villiers.
+
+The old lady shrugged her shoulders and lifted her eyebrows in answer to
+Miss Sallie's question: "The world is so full of impostors, and Europe
+so full of counts," she said.
+
+The countess blushed hotly. There was an awkward silence.
+
+Miss Sallie was sorry she had spoken. But why should such an idle
+question cause annoyance? The young count was surely a stranger to her
+two hostesses. There was nothing to indicate that the young man was in
+earnest about Maud Warren. He had simply paid her casual attentions for
+the past few days.
+
+"Shall you and I become members of this secret society, Madame de
+Villiers?" inquired Miss Stuart, to divert the conversation. "I suppose
+we had better be content with the posts of confidential agents. Because
+I assure you there is no limit to what this society may do."
+
+"And I should prefer to be scout, guardsman, or messenger," agreed Mr.
+Stuart. "I, too, shrink from being an active member of such a vigorous
+organization."
+
+"Then let us leave these faithless people behind, girls," proposed the
+young countess. "Let us run away to the old boathouse and plan our
+campaign. We are not sure that we may safely confide to you our secret
+signals, our hand clasps and our code," she protested to the older
+people.
+
+Madame de Villiers now led the way into the drawing room.
+
+But the young countess ran lightly out of the house, followed by her
+four girl guests. "We'll arrange our secrets while our elders take their
+coffee on the balcony," she suggested.
+
+When the countess and the "Automobile Girls" had disappeared, Madame de
+Villiers smiled a little apologetically at Miss Stuart and her brother.
+"The countess is only a girl herself," she explained. "Of course, she is
+several years older than your girls. Yet, in many ways, she is still
+simply a child."
+
+"She is very beautiful and charming," replied Miss Sallie cordially.
+"You see how she has fascinated our girls."
+
+"So she does everyone," replied Madame de Villiers, shaking her head
+somewhat sadly.
+
+In the meantime the five conspirators were absorbed in devising their
+signals. They were only joking, of course. Yet, somehow, the young
+countess entered so seriously into their make-believe that the girls
+almost forgot they were not in earnest. One thing they conscientiously
+agreed upon--Maud Warren was to be constantly invited to share their
+pleasures with, or without, her objectionable friends.
+
+"Must the Count de Sonde be permitted always to come along with us and
+Maud?" Grace queried. She had been taking little part in the
+conversation, for she had been industriously writing down a list of
+signals for their new organization.
+
+"We must have him, if Maud won't come without him," replied Ruth. "Maud
+must be won over to our side by flattering attentions. Suppose we start
+out being friends with her, by having another luncheon at our hotel.
+Will you come, Countess?"
+
+The countess shook her head gently. "I am sorry," she replied a little
+soberly. "I--" she hesitated a moment. "I fear you will think me rude.
+But I have made it a rule never to appear at the hotels. I will do
+anything else. Suppose we give a picnic? Is not that what you call it in
+English?"
+
+"A picnic would be delightful," agreed Ruth politely. But she could not
+help wondering why the countess was not willing "to appear," as she
+expressed it, at the hotels.
+
+"The signals are ready!" cried Grace. "There are two handshakes. The one
+which denotes danger is like this: Press the forefinger of one hand into
+the palm of the other person's hand when you shake hands."
+
+"That is very clever!" exclaimed the countess. She clasped Mollie's
+little hand. "Now, Mademoiselle Mollie, when you feel my finger press
+your palm like this, you will know that I am greatly in need of your
+help."
+
+"A white ribbon bow worn on the left shoulder, means that a secret
+meeting must be called at once!" Grace declaimed.
+
+"And a blue ribbon bow, worn instead of a white one, proclaims: 'I have
+important information to communicate,'" added the Countess Sophia. "But
+I should have a special signal by which to summon you. Let me see. I
+must be able to signal you from a distance. If I fasten a red flag to
+one of these posts in the day time you must know that I want to see you
+very much."
+
+"But what about a night signal?" asked Grace, who was taking the signals
+very seriously.
+
+The countess laughed. "If ever you should happen to see a bright light
+shining in the tower of my villa, come to me at once. I shall be in
+great danger. Now, is not that exciting?" she cried, clasping her hands
+and smiling at the little company.
+
+At this moment there came a sound of oars dipping in the water. A boat
+glided from under the pavilion, which was built out over the water. The
+boat must have been hugging the shore until it reached the boathouse.
+Then it made for the open water. In the boat was one man. And
+immediately the countess and the four "Automobile Girls" recognized him.
+He was the Frenchman, Monsier Duval!
+
+"I wonder if he has been eavesdropping?" asked Ruth indignantly.
+
+"Oh well, he has heard nothing but make-believe," the countess replied
+lightly, as she led her guests back to the villa.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII
+
+TEA IN THE COCOANUT GROVE
+
+
+Their beloved red automobile, companion in so many adventures and
+faithful friend in time of need, did not accompany the "Automobile
+Girls" to Palm Beach. But Mr. Stuart engaged another larger motor car
+with a chauffeur to run it, as soon as he arrived at the famous southern
+resort. He preferred Ruth to have a chauffeur at her command in case she
+needed him.
+
+There was room in the new automobile for ten persons, and Mr. Stuart,
+Miss Sallie, the four "Automobile Girls," the Countess Sophia and Madame
+de Villiers seated themselves in its cavernous depths. Then the car spun
+out along the famous Shell Road, lined on each side with the tall,
+delicate yucca plants. A fragrant southern breeze fanned the faces of
+the happy party. The sunlight was dazzling, the sky a deep blue. All
+about were masses of tropical vegetation that glittered in the sunshine.
+
+"This place is truly heavenly," exclaimed the Countess Sophia von
+Stolberg. She leaned back in the automobile and closed her eyes. "How
+could one help being happy, surrounded by all this beauty? I am indeed
+very happy to-day. Are you not happy, Cousine?" she murmured, taking
+Madame de Villiers's hand and looking at her with a tender, loving
+expression. The older woman's stern face softened.
+
+"Very happy, my dear," she declared. "This is not a place to remember
+one's troubles."
+
+The countess's face clouded at the word "troubles." She began to say
+something in German, but checked herself. She was far too well-bred to
+speak any language but English before her new friends.
+
+"Yes; this is a small sized heaven," agreed Bab. "A kind of oasis in a
+desert, for over there are the Everglades."
+
+"And what are the Everglades?" inquired the countess.
+
+"The guide-book says they are trackless jungle," explained Bab. "They
+are full of wild animals; wild cats, and panthers, and deer. They have
+poisonous snakes in them, too. Very few white men ever venture in the
+Everglades, but the Indians have trails through them. They often kill
+deer in the jungle and sell them at the hotel."
+
+"It would not be pleasant to be lost in such a place," suggested Mollie.
+She was thinking of her own experience when she was lost in the forest
+in the Berkshire Hills.
+
+"And it would not be easy to find you in the Everglades either, little
+sister," rejoined Bab. "So please beware! Never go into the Everglades
+alone."
+
+"Oh, don't worry," laughed Mollie. "Being lost once was enough for me."
+
+"If you ever do disappear, Mademoiselle Mollie, the secret society will
+never rest until it finds you. We must be very faithful to each other,
+dear fellow members?" laughed the countess.
+
+"I am sure we agree to that," declared Ruth.
+
+Walking along the road ahead of them, Barbara espied two figures.
+
+"Do you know," she demanded, "I believe those two people just in front
+of us are Maud Warren and her count."
+
+It really was Maud loitering along the road accompanied by the count.
+
+"Stop our car, Robert," ordered Miss Sallie.
+
+Maud explained that her motor car had broken down some distance up the
+road. She and the count had decided to walk on. They hoped to be picked
+up by friends.
+
+"Do you mean you were out motoring alone with the Count de Sonde?"
+inquired Miss Stuart severely.
+
+"Why not?" answered Maud, looking insolently at Miss Sallie.
+
+"Ah it is in this free America that one needs no chaperons," said Madame
+de Villiers innocently, but with a gleam of mischief in her eyes.
+
+Maud made no reply. Two angry spots glowed in her cheeks.
+
+The countess now made up her mind to intercede. She did not wish Maud to
+fly into a rage.
+
+"I have had a visit from your friends, the 'Automobile Girls', Miss
+Warren," she said graciously. "Perhaps you will join them when they come
+to see me again."
+
+Maud favored the countess with a chilly stare.
+
+Could it be that Mrs. De Lancey Smythe had been whispering tales about
+the countess in Maud's ears? And had this stupid girl believed what she
+had heard? Ruth felt her heart thump with the embarrassment of the
+situation. What was Maud going to say? Strangely enough Madame de
+Villiers' face held the same look of fear that Ruth's did. Why should
+Madame de Villiers look frightened instead of angry?
+
+But Maud never uttered the insult her lips were trying to frame. Spoiled
+and undisciplined child that she was, when she turned her sneering face
+toward the countess the words suddenly failed her. For the first time
+Maud felt that money, after all, counted for little. There was something
+about this plainly dressed woman that suddenly made her feel mean and
+ashamed. Maud looked deep into the countess's beautiful eyes, then
+answered with unaccustomed meekness. "Thank you so much. I should like
+to come to see you."
+
+In the meantime naughty Mollie was taking a slight revenge upon the
+count.
+
+"You are quite athletic, are you not?" she asked him innocently, her
+baby blue eyes fastened on his.
+
+"I, athletic?" exclaimed the little count in surprise. "Not very,
+Mademoiselle. Why do you ask?"
+
+"Because you run so well," Mollie answered, with a far-away look.
+
+"You refer to this morning, I perceive, Mademoiselle," expostulated the
+count. "I do not swim; therefore I ran for help. But there was no
+danger. Your sister was never in deep water. Yet it was a most effective
+scene. Doubtless the young lady will enjoy being a heroine."
+
+Mollie flushed. "Barbara would have been in danger if Marian had not
+helped to pull her and the child out of the water. And, by the way,
+Marian does not swim either."
+
+"Ah, Mademoiselle Marian? I saw her later," laughed the count. "How
+droll was her appearance and that of your sister also."
+
+Mollie heartily disgusted with the little count turned her back on him.
+
+"Get into the motor car, both of you," ordered Miss Sallie firmly.
+
+A few minutes later their automobile reached the entrance to the
+cocoanut grove.
+
+"Papa, let us stop here and have tea?" asked Ruth.
+
+"A good idea, Ruth," agreed Mr. Stuart, giving the chauffeur the order.
+
+"I am very sorry," interrupted the countess. "But I fear I cannot stop
+this afternoon."
+
+"Oh, please do, Countess!" urged Ruth and her friends. Even Maud's voice
+was heard to join in the general chorus.
+
+The countess hesitated. She looked at Madame de Villiers with
+questioning eyes. It was evident that the young countess also yearned
+for the pleasure of drinking tea under the cocoanut trees. Madame de
+Villiers shrugged her shoulders. She said something softly, so that no
+one else could hear. The countess dropped her white chiffon veil down
+over her face.
+
+"After all, I cannot resist your invitation, Mr. Stuart," the young
+woman agreed. "But may I ask you not to stay long?"
+
+Presently Mr. Stuart's party was seated around a large, rustic table in
+the beautiful cocoanut grove. Hundreds of other people, clad in white
+and light clothes, were seated at other tables. In the distance a band
+played. During the intermissions the listeners could hear the twittering
+and singing of multitudes of birds, which also sojourn for the winter at
+Palm Beach.
+
+The countess was the object of many glances from the people near her,
+although she had not lifted the heavy chiffon veil from her face. She
+was a woman of rarely beautiful presence. There was something regal in
+the set of her small head on her graceful shoulders. Her gown and hat
+were extremely plain and she wore no jewels; but an atmosphere
+surrounded the lovely countess like an aura of sunlight, Ruth thought.
+She was very gentle and sweet, though there was something about her that
+suggested she could be equally stern if the situation required it. Ruth
+hoped never to incur her displeasure.
+
+When tea was served the countess was obliged to throw back her veil.
+
+Madame de Villiers looked at her disapprovingly. Then the old woman cast
+hurried glances about her, but was apparently satisfied.
+
+As for the young countess, she took in a deep breath of the warm, soft
+air laden with the scent of the orange blossoms. She let her eyes wander
+over the grove and smiled as a burst of music floated across to her.
+
+"I am fascinated, enchanted!" she exclaimed. "Mr. Stuart, I thank you
+for the pleasure of this afternoon."
+
+There was always a slight formality in the young countess's manner which
+kept people at a distance.
+
+"Do not thank me, Countess," protested Mr. Stuart. "You and Madame de
+Villiers are conferring an honor upon us."
+
+"Madame de Villiers and I are two lonely women," continued the countess.
+"We have not seen the beauties of this place, except from our piazza.
+How exquisite this grove is! Truly, it is like paradise."
+
+Again the young woman's gaze swept the tea garden. Suddenly her face
+turned white. She bit her lips, and sat as if turned to stone. Her eyes
+were fastened on a group of three men at a nearby table. Madame de
+Villiers had not noticed them. The men had not yet noticed the Stuart's
+guests.
+
+The countess dropped her veil quickly. Ruth and Mollie, sitting on each
+side of the countess, were the only members of the party who felt that
+something had happened, and they were wise enough to be absolutely
+silent. Only the girls' eyes followed the direction of the countess's.
+They, too, saw the three men, one of whom they recognized as Mr. Duval.
+The other two were strangers, foreign-looking men with waxed mustaches
+and light hair.
+
+All at once Mollie felt her hand seized convulsively under cover of the
+table. But the little girl was not prepared for the special mark of
+confidence that the countess was now to bestow on her. As Mollie held
+the countess's hand in her own, she felt a tap, tap in the centre of her
+palm. Like a flash Mollie remembered. The countess had given her the
+danger signal they had agreed upon the day before. Mollie looked quickly
+over at Maud Warren. She presumed the signal indicated that there was
+something the matter with Maud. But Maud was sitting quietly between
+Barbara and Grace Carter.
+
+Then what could the countess mean? Could she be jesting? Mollie did not
+think so. Through the meshes of her white veil the face of the countess
+looked out very white and grave.
+
+Mollie's heart was beating fast. What could she say? What must she do?
+Of one thing she now felt sure. The beautiful Countess Sophia von
+Stolberg was threatened with trouble. She should have all the aid that
+the "Automobile Girls" could give.
+
+"I understand," Mollie now whispered back to her in a low voice. "What
+shall I do?"
+
+"I must leave the tea garden at once," replied the countess quietly.
+"But I do not wish to be observed. Madame de Villiers must go with me,
+but I do not wish the party to break up. That would make us
+conspicuous."
+
+"Ruth and I will go with you. Don't be worried; we will go quietly.
+Wait, I must speak to her."
+
+"Ruth," Mollie spoke softly to her friend. "The countess wishes to go
+home without disturbing any one else. Shall we slip out with her, and
+see her home?"
+
+"Why, of course," answered Ruth politely, although she was somewhat
+mystified.
+
+They were about to arise quietly from the table when they were
+interrupted. A waiter handed a note to Mr. Stuart. Mr. Stuart read it.
+His face turned very red.
+
+Now, if there was one thing in particular that Robert Stuart loathed it
+was an anonymous letter. The message he had just received was not
+signed, and it read:
+
+"Beware of the countess. She is an impostor."
+
+Mr. Stuart crushed the paper in his hand.
+
+"Mr. Stuart," said the low voice of the countess, just at this moment,
+"forgive my leaving so soon. But I must go at once. Mollie and Ruth are
+coming with me." As the countess rose from her chair she glanced hastily
+at the three men at the table near them. These men had also risen. But
+they were not looking at the countess.
+
+The young woman started hurriedly toward the gate. Madame de Villiers
+quickly followed her. So did Ruth, Mollie and Mr. Stuart.
+
+"Please wait here until we come back for you," Ruth said to her aunt.
+
+Monsieur Duval had now crossed the space intervening between the two
+tables. He had seated himself next to Miss Sallie. The other two
+foreigners were moving toward the gate.
+
+Ruth hurried on. She gave her order to the chauffeur. The man was soon
+cranking up the machine. The four women had taken their seats in the
+motor car. At this moment one of the strangers approached Mr. Stuart.
+The other took off his hat and bowed low to the countess. He spoke to
+her in German, but her reply was given in English. It was very plain. "I
+do not know you," she said.
+
+The man spoke again. This time his manner was insolent. Madame de
+Villiers's face grew dark with rage.
+
+"Hurry!" called Ruth to her chauffeur. Mr. Stuart sprang into the
+automobile.
+
+The machine sped on leaving the two strangers standing alone in the
+road.
+
+"Do not worry, Cousine," the countess murmured in the course of their
+ride. "The man who spoke to me made a mistake. You will frighten our
+friends if you are so angry."
+
+Madame de Villiers said nothing. But there was fire in her small shining
+black eyes. Her beaked nose looked as though it might peck at the next
+offender.
+
+Mr. Stuart and the two girls left the countess and her companion at
+their villa. The two women were now composed. Indeed, the countess made
+Ruth and Mollie promise that the "Automobile Girls" would come to see
+her again the next day.
+
+Mollie and Ruth could not help puzzling over the countess as they rode
+back to the cocoanut grove. Mr. Stuart kept his own counsel.
+
+"I am certain there is some mystery about the countess," Ruth avowed.
+"But, whatever the mystery is, the 'Automobile Girls' are on her side!"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII
+
+THE WARNING
+
+
+In the meantime Mr. Duval was making himself exceedingly entertaining to
+Miss Sallie, Grace and Barbara in the tea garden. Maud and the Count de
+Sonde had withdrawn to a seat near the music, and were engrossed in a
+tête-à-tête.
+
+Mr. Duval had traveled widely. He told his little audience about Chinese
+and Japanese tea gardens. He told tales of many lands and gave accounts
+of numerous adventures in which he had participated.
+
+Barbara and Grace listened fascinated. They hardly knew how the time
+passed. At last Mr. Stuart came back with Ruth and Mollie. Mr. Warren
+and Mrs. De Lancey Smythe had joined them, without Marian. Mr. Warren
+was looking for Maud. But Bab wondered how poor Marian had weathered the
+storm that must have broken when Mrs. De Lancey Smythe returned to the
+hotel that morning.
+
+"Where is Marian?" Ruth asked the widow abruptly, looking her straight
+in the eyes.
+
+Mrs. De Lancey Smythe's eyes dropped before Ruth's clear gaze. She
+twirled her parasol, looked annoyed then said frigidly: "Marian has a
+headache this afternoon."
+
+"I trust the wetting she got this morning had nothing to do with it."
+
+"Marian is an impulsive and reckless girl," snapped her mother. "She is
+entirely too fond of disregarding all conventions."
+
+"Has any one seen my daughter?" Mr. Warren's deep voice was now heard
+above the hum of conversation. Mrs. De Lancey Smythe joined him and
+together they strolled over toward Maud and the count. Mrs. De Lancey
+Smythe seized this opportunity to say a few words in favor of the Count
+de Sonde, for it was evident that Mr. Warren had taken a violent dislike
+to the young man. Had some one persuaded the widow to make this appeal,
+or was she genuinely attracted by the young French nobleman?
+
+Mr. Stuart found himself agreeably surprised by Monsieur Duval. When the
+sun began to sink, and the tea drinkers prepared to return to their
+hotel, Mr. Duval occupied a seat in the Stuart automobile. Moreover,
+when he said good-bye on the hotel veranda, he carried with him two
+invitations. One was to dine with the Stuart party that very evening,
+the other, to go with them the next day on a picnic.
+
+No sooner was Bab out of the automobile than she determined to run up to
+Marian's room. She knew the widow had not yet returned. Bab found the
+number of Marian's room from the hotel clerk. Then she got in the
+elevator and went up to the top floor of the hotel.
+
+She knocked at a door in the middle of a long narrow passage, and a
+faint voice said: "Come in."
+
+Bab entered a small bed room situated under the eaves of the hotel roof.
+There were three trunks in the tiny chamber which overlooked a court
+yard. The room was very close and hot. Marian was on the bed. She had
+cried herself to sleep. At Bab's knock she opened her heavy eyes.
+
+"Why, Barbara!" she exclaimed. "It is awfully good of you to come up to
+see me, but Mama would have three fits if she knew you had seen this
+room. I am glad you have come, because I have something special to tell
+you. I----" Poor Marian hesitated and stopped.
+
+Barbara looked at her with questioning eyes.
+
+"I am afraid it is dreadfully disloyal of me to say another word."
+Marian pressed her hands to her temples. "And I haven't anything really
+definite to tell you. But, oh Barbara, I have a suspicion that something
+may happen soon! Will you remember that I had nothing to do with it, and
+that I mean to prevent it if I can?"
+
+Barbara, completely mystified, hardly knew what to reply.
+
+"Do you mean to warn me, Marian?" she asked her new friend. "Do you mean
+that something is going to happen that may concern us?"
+
+"No; not exactly," Marian answered. Then she made an impetuous movement.
+"Please don't question me," she begged. "There is a reason why I dare
+not answer your questions. Forget what I have said, if you can. But for
+goodness' sake, don't mention to Mama that I have talked with you. I
+sometimes wonder what will become of us. Things can't go on much longer.
+There is sure to be a grand crash. But please go, now, Barbara, Mama
+might come in and she would be very angry to find you here. I will see
+you to-night."
+
+Barbara did not meet Mrs. De Lancey Smythe as she left Marian's room,
+but she did run across her in the evening. The widow was hurrying
+through a side corridor in the hotel. She was wrapped in a long dark
+cloak, and appeared to be trying to leave the hotel by stealth. Bab drew
+back into one end of the corridor until the widow had disappeared, then
+she walked slowly out on the piazza. Marian's warning was ringing in her
+ears. What was it that Marian had feared might happen, and why did her
+mother leave the hotel in that stealthy mysterious manner?
+
+On the piazza Bab found her own friends enjoying the beauty of the
+night. Maud and the Count de Sonde were talking just outside the group.
+
+"Do you know what I heard to-day?" remarked Mr. Stuart. "I understand
+that there is a swindler abroad at Palm Beach. A woman at that."
+
+"You don't mean it," exclaimed Miss Sallie. "How dreadful!"
+
+"It seems," continued Mr. Stuart, "that the detectives have been on the
+watch for her for some time, but so far she has been too clever for
+them. However, they have traced her to the Beach, but among the hundreds
+of tourists they have lost their clue. They do not despair of finding
+her yet, and a strict watch is being kept. She may be apprehended at any
+moment."
+
+"Well, let's hope she doesn't attempt to swindle us," commented Ruth.
+"By the way where is Monsieur Duval? He disappeared mysteriously the
+moment dinner was over."
+
+"He had an engagement, and begged to be excused," replied Mr. Stuart.
+"He said he would return in a little while."
+
+"Speaking of angels," remarked Mollie, "here he comes now."
+
+"Yes, and he's towing along our pet aversion Mrs. D. L. Smythe," said
+Grace.
+
+Bab looked toward the approaching pair.
+
+Monsier Duval and Mrs. De Lancey Smythe not yet aware that they were
+under the observation of the Stuart party, were deeply engaged in
+conversation.
+
+Barbara, watching closely, saw the Frenchman glance up, then he quickly
+dropped his eyes, and an expression of cautious cunning flitted over his
+face. His lips moved, the widow gave a half frightened look, then her
+expression of absorption changed to one of languid indifference. As the
+two neared the steps, from their demeanor, one would have concluded them
+to be mere acquaintances.
+
+What was the meaning of it all? Barbara wondered. And what secret
+understanding was there between those two people? Bab's observant eye
+noted that Monsieur Duval carried over one arm the heavy cloak in which
+she had seen the widow wrapped a short time before. Had Mrs. De Lancey
+Smythe gone to meet the Frenchman, and, if so why did she not do so
+openly? Suppose Mrs. De Lancey Smythe were an impostor, with a game to
+play. Suppose Mr. Duval were--Barbara sighed impatiently. She was
+letting her imagination run riot. She resolved to dismiss the whole
+tiresome business from her mind, and enjoy herself.
+
+At that moment Maud Warren came languidly forward, the little count at
+her heels. "Miss Stuart," she announced, "I have persuaded Papa to let
+me give a masked ball before we go back to New York. There are a number
+of smart people here at Palm Beach, and I want the count to see one of
+our American balls. We shall wear our masks until midnight, and then
+have a cotillon afterwards."
+
+"That will be delightful, Maud!" replied Ruth. "And that reminds me.
+Father and I have never arranged about our picnic to-morrow. Don't you
+think it would be fun to motor over to the big ostrich farm and have our
+luncheon there under the trees?"
+
+"Very delightful," agreed Maud. "Don't you think so, Count?"
+
+"I shall be charmed," replied the little count, with an exaggerated bow.
+
+"But we shan't," whispered Mollie, naughtily to Barbara, under cover of
+general conversation.
+
+"In order to cure, we must endure," returned Bab in an undertone.
+Whereupon the sisters both chuckled softly.
+
+At this juncture Marian appeared at the end of the piazza, and came
+slowly toward the group. Her eyes still showed traces of tears, and she
+looked ill and wretched.
+
+Mr. Stuart greeted Marian kindly, and immediately invited her to Ruth's
+picnic. And the invitation, of course, had to include Marian's mother.
+"I am sorry you have been ill," he said courteously, interrupting his
+conversation with Mr. Duval.
+
+Monsieur Duval's eyes rested curiously on Marian. His look searched her
+face. "Perhaps the climate of Palm Beach does not agree with your
+health," he suggested. "You do not like it here?"
+
+"It is not a question of what I like or dislike, Mr. Duval," said Marian
+curtly.
+
+"But what do you prefer?" persisted the Frenchman with a shade of
+interest in his manner.
+
+"To mind my own affairs," returned Marian coldly, turning her back on
+Monsieur Duval.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX
+
+A CASE OF MISTAKEN IDENTITY
+
+
+Early the next afternoon the picnickers sallied forth in two
+automobiles, going first to the villa for the Countess Sophia and Madame
+de Villiers, then the two cars sped along the country road in the
+direction of the ostrich farm. Marian, Mollie, Mrs. De Lancey Smythe,
+Miss Stuart, Barbara, Maud and the Count de Sonde were in the foremost
+car, while the remainder of the party occupied the car first rented by
+Mr. Stuart, with Ruth as chauffeur.
+
+"Why don't you start a song?" called Ruth over her shoulder. "Grace,
+sing something. Sing 'My Old Kentucky Home.'"
+
+Grace sang the plaintive old melody in her sweet, high soprano voice.
+
+The Countess Sophia was enchanted. "What a charming song!" she declared.
+"What an exquisite melody. I have not heard it before. Is it not one of
+your old southern songs?"
+
+"Won't you sing, Countess?" begged Mr. Stuart.
+
+The countess shook her head and smiled. "I do not care to sing alone,"
+she avowed. "But I am sure Monsieur Duval has the throat of a singer.
+Will you not sing a song of your country, Monsieur?"
+
+"If you will sing a song of your land in return," answered the Frenchman
+quickly. Could it be that he, too, was curious to discover to a
+certainty the Countess Sophia von Stolberg's nationality?
+
+The countess dropped her eyes under Mr. Duval's steady gaze.
+
+"I do not sing without an accompaniment, Monsieur," she said briefly.
+
+Madame de Villiers looked annoyed. Grace and Ruth wondered why the
+countess should be so secretive. She spoke French, German and English
+almost equally well. On her library table Ruth had discovered a number
+of Italian books.
+
+Monsieur Duval did not press his request. The Frenchman had very
+polished manners. Instead in a full baritone voice he sang the
+"Marseillaise." His audience was profoundly stirred. "You are a patriot,
+Mr. Duval," Mr. Stuart remarked.
+
+Monsieur Duval's expression changed. But he said nothing. It was
+impossible to translate his peculiar look.
+
+"Do sing for us, Countess," begged Grace later. "I know you have a
+wonderful voice."
+
+"Remember, you are to give us a song of your country," Mr. Duval
+persisted.
+
+The countess made no reply to him. But in a voice clear as a bell she
+sang:
+
+  "Thou art like unto a flower."
+
+"But that is an English song," expostulated Mr. Duval when the countess
+had finished.
+
+"Yes, but it was written first by a German poet: Du bist wie eine
+blume," sang the countess, this time in German. "Shall I try it in
+French and Italian for you? The little song has been translated into
+every tongue."
+
+It was evident to her listeners that the Countess Sophia von Stolberg
+was proficient in half a dozen languages.
+
+Grace thought she caught a glimpse of concealed amusement on Madame de
+Villiers's face. But the stately old woman said nothing.
+
+The motor party had now arrived at the ostrich farm. Mollie, the
+countess and Bab ran on ahead. Ruth slipped her arm through Maud
+Warren's. The count joined them, but Ruth did not withdraw her arm. Maud
+did not seem to mind Ruth's "playing gooseberry." Maud was really
+becoming fond of the "Automobile Girls." It was plain, however, that the
+Count de Sonde had eyes only for Maud.
+
+The Count de Sonde, who wore high heeled shoes to make him look taller,
+walked with the two girls. He talked constantly, using his hands and
+shoulders to emphasize his remarks.
+
+"You see, Mademoiselle Maud," he explained. "My parents died when I was
+a mere infant. Most of my life I have spent in Paris. I do not often go
+to the Chateau de Sonde. But I love dearly the home of my ancestors."
+
+"How much land have you around your castle, Count?" asked Ruth.
+
+The count looked annoyed at the question. "It is a very large estate,"
+he answered vaguely.
+
+But Ruth was determined to secure definite information. "Is your chateau
+on a hill or in a valley?" she next inquired.
+
+The count shrugged his shoulders. "It is on the side of a mountain,
+overlooking a valley," he declared.
+
+The picnic party had now arrived in front of the cages containing the
+ostriches. The great birds were strolling about in fine disdain.
+
+But Ruth's mind dwelt on the Chateau de Sonde. She was frankly curious
+about it. "Have you ever visited the Count de Sonde at his chateau, Mr.
+Duval?" inquired Ruth, who happened to be standing next the Frenchman.
+
+[Illustration: The Count Walked With the Two Girls.]
+
+ "A number of times, Miss Stuart," answered Monsieur Duval. "The count
+and I are old friends."
+
+"Is it built on a mountain or in a valley?" queried Ruth. She did not
+know herself exactly why she repeated her question.
+
+"The Chateau de Sonde nestles in the heart of a valley," was Monsieur
+Duval's prompt answer.
+
+He caught Ruth's eyes fixed on him with an expression of wonder. But it
+was Ruth, not Monsieur Duval, who blushed furiously. The man's eyes were
+gray and inscrutable. "Why do you ask, Mademoiselle?" he inquired.
+
+"I don't know," Ruth answered lamely. The man frightened her. He seemed
+so brilliant, so traveled, so strong, so dangerous. And yet, he had just
+told Ruth a lie. Why should he pretend he had visited at the Chateau de
+Sonde?
+
+"Come, everybody; it is time for luncheon," called Mr. Stuart an hour
+later, when his guests had finished their survey of the ostrich cages.
+
+The "Automobile Girls" opened their immense lunch basket, which the
+chauffeur had set under the trees. The Countess Sophia insisted on
+helping the girls. She was all radiant smiles and gayety. She hummed a
+song to herself full of delicious, bird-like trills, in a voice that had
+been wonderfully trained. In every way the countess showed what pleasure
+she felt in the picnic. So much so that she was easily the central
+figure of the party.
+
+Finally the entire company seated themselves in a circle on the ground,
+Maud Warren and her father with flushed faces. They had evidently been
+having a private altercation about the Count de Sonde. The count however
+looked serenely unconscious of the fact.
+
+A sense of tranquility and cheerfulness soon stole over every one. The
+day was enchanting. The chicken and nut sandwiches and other eatables
+tasted unusually good, and the party did full justice to the tempting
+luncheon the Stuarts had provided.
+
+All the guests laughed and talked at the same time. Suddenly the
+countess began to sing again in a low voice: "Knowest thou the land?"
+from "Mignon."
+
+The others listened with delight.
+
+Down the avenue a vehicle was heard approaching. There was a cloud of
+dust enveloping it. It was impossible for the picnic party to
+distinguish the occupants of the carriage. The countess's back was
+turned toward the equipage. She did not look around. Mollie and Ruth
+were glad that she did not turn, for they recognized the two foreigners
+who had frightened the young Countess Sophia in the tea garden the
+afternoon before.
+
+The men drove up to a palm tree near the spot where Mr. Stuart's guests
+were eating. They hitched their horse. Then they walked deliberately
+over to the picnickers. Without a word one of the men reached down. He
+touched the Countess Sophia von Stolberg on the arm.
+
+Undoubtedly he was German. His face looked threatening and his manner
+was insulting. His companion waited near him. The Countess Sophia
+shuddered as the stranger touched her. She trembled and turned pale like
+a frightened child.
+
+"Madame," said the German, "you are wanted by the police. We have been
+sent to arrest you."
+
+Mrs. De Lancey Smythe gave a hysterical laugh of triumph.
+
+But the young countess quickly recovered her self-control.
+
+"You have made a mistake," she returned quietly, to the man, whose hand
+still rested on her arm. "What have I done to be arrested? You have no
+right to annoy me."
+
+"You are the notorious swindler wanted by the police of two continents,"
+accused the German. "I am here to take you back to France where you are
+wanted."
+
+Madame de Villiers now arose. She lifted her great mahogany cane, her
+face dark with anger.
+
+"You will regret this day's work," she announced. "Be gone!"
+
+But she had hardly finished her speech, before Mr. Stuart was on his
+feet. He seized the intruder by the collar, and before the man could
+more than raise his hand from the Countess Sophia's arm, he was hurled
+several feet away, landing in a heap on the ground.
+
+"You foreign idiot," cried Mr. Stuart, forgetting his women guests in
+his anger. "How dare you come here and create a disturbance among my
+friends. You are without a warrant or a policeman. The Countess Sophia
+von Stolberg is our friend. You shall pay dearly for your insolence.
+Leave this place without a second's delay or I shall lay violent hands
+on you."
+
+The two strangers did not dare defy Mr. Stuart. Mr. Warren had also
+risen and hurried to his friend's aid and the two Americans looked
+thoroughly capable of enforcing their commands.
+
+The foreigners went back to their carriage. After a slight delay they
+drove off, still muttering veiled threats.
+
+When they had disappeared down the avenue, Countess Sophia gave Mr.
+Stuart her hand.
+
+"I thank you, Monsieur," she said. "Madame de Villiers and I are alone.
+It is good to have a protector. I do not know why those men attempted to
+arrest me without a warrant. I assure you they had not just cause. I
+believe they were sent by an enemy."
+
+"Perhaps, Countess," replied Mr. Stuart, "those two men think you are
+some one else. I know there is a notorious swindler at large at Palm
+Beach. It is probably a case of mistaken identity."
+
+The Countess Sophia made no answer. Barbara, who was watching her
+closely, saw a look of unmistakable fear leap into her dark eyes at the
+mention of the word "swindler." Bab glanced quickly about her and
+encountered the eyes of Monsieur Duval. In them was an expression of
+cruel triumph that made Bab feel certain that he was in some way
+responsible for the late unpleasant scene.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X
+
+THE SECRET SIGNALS
+
+
+Ruth was stretched out on a steamer rug on the warm sands, lazily
+looking out over the blue waters.
+
+Barbara was disporting herself in the waves like a water sprite who had
+dared to show herself among mortals. Many of the bathers stopped to
+watch with admiration the figure of the young girl plunging gracefully
+through the waves.
+
+But Ruth was not watching Barbara. She was thinking deeply.
+
+Why had the Countess Sophia von Stolberg refused to prosecute the two
+foreigners who had deliberately insulted her?
+
+Immediately after their return from the picnic Mr. Stuart had written
+the young countess a note. He suggested that he have the two strangers
+put out of their hotel, even driven away from Palm Beach. But the
+countess's reply had been polite, but firm. No; she did not wish to
+prosecute her annoyers. The men had simply made a mistake. There would
+be less notoriety if she let the matter drop.
+
+Mr. Stuart was not satisfied. He assured the countess that he and Mr.
+Warren had sufficient influence to have the two men sent away without
+the least publicity attending their dismissal. Still the decision of the
+countess remained unchanged. She graciously thanked Mr. Stuart for his
+kindness, but she really preferred to let the whole matter drop.
+
+There was nothing more to be said.
+
+Ruth now observed these same two men. They were seated not far from her,
+watching Barbara with stolid admiration. So far as Ruth knew they had
+not repeated their attempt to arrest the countess. But they had not
+confessed their error, nor offered to apologize either to Mr. Stuart or
+to the countess.
+
+The story that there was a notorious woman swindler at large at Palm
+Beach was now common gossip.
+
+"It is absurd to suspect the countess," Ruth thought as she reviewed the
+recent disagreeable incident. "If the scandal goes any further I shall
+side with her, no matter what may be the consequences." Ruth ended her
+reverie by making this last statement aloud. But she was sorry a second
+later.
+
+A voice spoke at her elbow. "Do you think, Mademoiselle Ruth," it
+inquired, "that suspicion of a certain person will reach a point where
+you will be required to take sides?"
+
+Ruth started. She had been in a brown study, and was embarrassed and
+annoyed at having been caught speaking aloud.
+
+The voice belonged to Monsieur Duval. He had come dripping from his swim
+in the ocean, and had laid himself in the sand directly behind Ruth
+without her noticing him.
+
+"To what suspicion do you refer, Mr. Duval?" Ruth asked haughtily. She
+knew this clever Frenchman could read her mind like an open book. But
+she did not intend to confess that her remark had referred to the young
+countess.
+
+Monsieur Duval smiled. "I am afraid I listened at the door of your
+thoughts," he said. "I think I can guess with whom you intend to take
+sides. But I promise not to betray your secret. I am sorry I overheard
+your last remark. Yet I do not see why you think the Countess Sophia may
+be accused of being this notorious woman criminal. It is true she allows
+herself to be persecuted without reason. She will not appear at this, or
+any other hotel, and keeps herself as much in seclusion as possible.
+Also she will not tell us the country of her birth, nor does she refer
+to any friends, but----" Monsieur Duval stopped.
+
+Ruth was indignant at the array of evidence that this Monsieur Duval was
+able to present against the young countess. She flushed guiltily, but
+wisely refrained from answering the Frenchman.
+
+Mr. Duval was obliged to continue the conversation.
+
+"Do you wish to help your friend?" he asked Ruth quietly.
+
+"Of course," Ruth replied warmly.
+
+The Frenchman leaned over. "Then watch everything, but say nothing. And,
+above all things, do not have a too accurate memory."
+
+Ruth was about to make an angry retort, when Mr. Duval skilfully changed
+the subject of their conversation. He praised Bab's wonderful diving. It
+reminded him of Neapolitan boys he had seen diving for pennies. Mr.
+Duval next told Ruth of a walking trip he had once made through southern
+Italy. She listened very much against her will to the entertaining
+Frenchman and it was with distinct relief that she saw Miss Sallie
+approaching them, dressed in an imported lavender linen and carrying a
+parasol and a book.
+
+Maud and her count appeared from the opposite direction. They also came
+forward to join Ruth and Monsieur Duval. Bab ran up the beach, shaking
+the drops of water from her blue bathing suit, her wet curls sparkling
+in the sun.
+
+Mr. Duval did not wish to remain with so large a party. His words had
+been for Ruth's ears alone. As Miss Stuart approached he bowed
+ironically to Ruth and strolled away.
+
+"How glad I am that we are not in the cold, sleet and blizzards of
+Chicago, child," Miss Stuart remarked, bringing Ruth back to earth
+again. "The Countess Sophia was right in saying our American climate in
+the north is unbearable in the winter time. I never felt so well in my
+life as I do in this delightful place."
+
+"Aunt Sallie," asked Ruth thoughtfully, ignoring the weather, and going
+back to the idea that was uppermost in her mind. "Do you think the
+Countess Sophia could be in need of money?"
+
+"How can I tell, child?" replied Miss Sallie. "The countess dresses
+plainly, but her gowns are in excellent taste. They are made by a
+modiste in Vienna, who, I happen to know, is one of the most expensive
+in Europe. On the other hand Madame de Villiers and the countess live
+very quietly. They keep only two servants. But the countess has the air
+of a woman of wealth and culture."
+
+"Are we going to dine with the countess to-morrow night?" asked Ruth
+impetuously.
+
+"Certainly, child," Miss Sallie replied, her serenity undisturbed. "It
+is true your father may not have returned from his fishing trip, but
+there is no reason why we should not go without him."
+
+Ruth closed her eyes. Could it be possible that they might be invited to
+eat food paid for by money gained dishonestly? Surely Monsieur Duval
+could not have spoken the truth!
+
+"Here comes that Mrs. De Lancey Smythe," remarked Miss Sallie with
+sudden energy. "I do wish that woman would keep away from us."
+
+"Aunt Sallie," said Ruth, "what do you dislike most about Mrs. De Lancey
+Smythe?"
+
+"Don't ask me, my dear," returned Miss Stuart rather impatiently.
+"Everything I should say. I must confess that the very sight of her
+irritates me."
+
+"There is something peculiar about her, at any rate," said Ruth, "I have
+seen her face grow hard as rock and look positively wicked when she
+thought no one was noticing her. Marian is afraid of her, too."
+
+"Nonsense, Ruth," replied Miss Sallie severely. "You and Barbara let
+your imaginations have too free rein. I don't approve of the woman and
+dislike her intensely, but I am not going to make her out an ogre."
+
+"She is, though," persisted Ruth. "That's why you don't like her, only
+you don't know it yourself. Some day you'll see I am right. Oh, here
+come Mollie and Grace. What's new, chilluns?" and springing to her feet
+Ruth called to Bab then hurried toward the approaching girls.
+
+Mollie and Grace had been out in a boat all morning with some new
+friends they had made at the hotel. As Ruth walked toward them she
+noticed that Mollie's cheeks were very red, and that she wore a look of
+suppressed excitement. Grace seemed almost equally agitated. Before she
+could reach them, however, she was hailed by a crowd of young people who
+were strolling on the beach, and she and Bab were obliged to stop and
+hold conversation.
+
+Mollie felt that it was imperative to summon Bab and Ruth. How could she
+manage without being observed? A sudden thought came to her. Putting her
+hand back to her curls she hastily untied the ribbon that bound them.
+The ribbon was blue. In an instant Mollie twisted it into a bow knot and
+pinned it on her left shoulder. Would Barbara and Ruth remember what the
+secret signal meant?
+
+Mollie need not have wondered. Hastily separating themselves from the
+crowd of talkers Bab and Ruth sped up the beach to join Mollie and
+Grace.
+
+"What is it, Mollie?" cried Bab out of breath. "I remember the blue
+ribbon. It was to signify: 'I have important news to communicate!' What
+has happened?"
+
+"As we passed the countess's villa on the launch, this morning," Mollie
+whispered mysteriously, "we saw a red flag tied to one of the posts of
+her pavilion. The countess wishes to see us on important business!"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI
+
+WHEELS WITHIN WHEELS
+
+
+"Shall we go to the countess at once, Ruth?" asked Barbara.
+
+Ruth hesitated. "The chauffeur has gone away for the day," she replied.
+"And we have no one to take us by boat to the villa."
+
+Mollie's blue eyes filled with tears. She had feared that Ruth suspected
+their lovely countess. Now she was sure of it. How absurd for Ruth to
+suggest they could not use the automobile because her chauffeur was
+away. The "Automobile Girls" had traveled for days at a time, with Ruth
+as her own chauffeur, while the trip to the countess's villa represented
+only a few miles.
+
+"How can you be so cruel, Ruth?" Mollie cried. "You just don't want to
+go to the countess's aid because you have listened to tales about her
+from that horrid Mrs. Smythe."
+
+"I haven't listened to Mrs. Smythe, Mollie," Ruth answered soothingly.
+"But I have been thinking. You can't deny that there is a good deal of
+mystery surrounding the Countess Sophia. There are many things that it
+seems to me she might explain. I don't wish to be hateful, and of course
+I can drive our car over to the countess's, though I have never taken
+out such a big car alone before. Come; let's get ready."
+
+Barbara hesitated. "Mollie," she protested, "I don't think it is right
+for us to make Ruth take us to see the countess, if she would rather not
+go."
+
+Mollie bit her lips. "Ruth Stuart," she said, "you talk about the
+countess explaining things. What have you ever asked her to explain? If
+there is anything you want to know about her, ask her to tell you. It is
+not fair to keep silent, and still not to trust her."
+
+Ruth had a sudden conviction that she would as soon approach the Queen
+of England to inquire into her private affairs as to ask questions of
+the Countess Sophia von Stolberg.
+
+"Well, Mollie, I will say this much," Ruth conceded. "I never doubt our
+countess when I am with her. She is so beautiful and sweet that I forget
+to be suspicious. But, when I am away from her, I have just wondered a
+little, that's all! Now, don't be cross, Barbara, but come with me. I am
+going to get out the automobile. Grace, will you and Mollie explain to
+Aunt Sallie where we are going?"
+
+"I'll tell you what, Ruth," Bab suggested. "Let us make up our minds not
+to suspect the countess because of any gossip we hear. There seems to be
+a great deal of talking going on, but nobody makes any definite charges.
+The countess has been delightful to us. I am afraid I am on her side as
+much as Mollie. The countess, right or wrong, but still the countess!"
+
+"Loyal Bab!" cried Ruth, patting Barbara's hand. "See, I cast all my
+suspicions away!" Ruth waved her other hand. "The cause of the countess
+is my cause also. I shall fight for her, through thick and thin." Ruth
+looked as though she meant what she said.
+
+The "Automobile Girls" were soon on their way to the countess's pretty
+villa. Mollie still held herself apart from the other three girls. She
+felt that no one of them had risen to the defence of her adored countess
+with the ardor she expected.
+
+Ruth was running the car slowly. It was only a few miles to the villa.
+Ruth was a cautious chauffeur, and was not in the habit of managing so
+large an automobile.
+
+As her car moved quietly and steadily toward its destination, another
+small automobile dashed past it. Ruth glanced about quickly. The man who
+drove the small car was exceeding the speed limit. He was alone. He wore
+a long dust coat with the collar turned up to his ears; he had a cap
+pulled low over his face, and he wore an immense pair of green goggles.
+But Ruth's quick eyes recognized him. Her three companions paid little
+attention to the man.
+
+"Bab," said Ruth, at almost the same instant that the small car swept by
+them, "it is Monsieur Duval who is driving that car!"
+
+"Well," replied Bab, "what of it? I did not know Mr. Duval was a
+motorist. But I am not surprised, for he seems to know almost
+everything."
+
+"Bab, I think he is on his way to see the Countess Sophia von Stolberg,"
+Ruth announced with conviction.
+
+"He does not know the countess, does he?" Grace inquired. "I think he
+was introduced to her only through us."
+
+"I don't know what Monsieur Duval knows and what he doesn't know,"
+explained Ruth. "But I should like to find out. Anyhow, I am going to
+beat him to the countess's house. If she has something important to tell
+us, Monsieur Duval shall not keep us from hearing it."
+
+Ruth put on full speed and started her car in pursuit of the flying
+automobile in front of her. In a few seconds she drew near the
+automobile. The little car was on the right side of the road and making
+its best speed. Ruth sounded her horn. She swerved her great car to the
+left in order to pass the smaller one.
+
+Bab uttered a cry of terror. Mollie and Grace both screamed. Ruth's face
+turned white, but she had no time to scream.
+
+The small motor car just in front of her immense automobile turned like
+a flash. It swept across the road immediately in the path of Ruth's
+on-coming car, and not more than a few paces ahead of her.
+
+It was either a mad piece of foolishness on the part of the chauffeur,
+or a magnificent dare. At the moment Ruth did not stop to wonder whether
+the man ahead of her had deliberately risked his life and theirs in
+order to accomplish some purpose. All her ability as a driver was needed
+to meet the situation.
+
+Ruth's hands never left the steering wheel of her car. In less than a
+half second, she put on the full stop brake. With a terrific wrench her
+great automobile settled back. It stopped just one foot this side of the
+car that had crossed their path.
+
+Ruth was white with anger. She saw, a moment later, that the driver
+ahead of her had accomplished his design. For no sooner had Ruth's car
+stopped, than the other motorist forged ahead. Ruth resumed the chase,
+but she was obliged to be careful. She dared not risk the lives of her
+friends by driving too close to the other car. The man ahead might
+repeat his trick. Ruth could not be sure that she could always stop her
+motor in so brief a space of time and distance.
+
+So the smaller of the two automobiles arrived first at the countess's
+villa.
+
+The Countess Sophia von Stolberg evidently expecting a visit from the
+"Automobile Girls," sat at her piano in her drawing-room, playing one of
+Chopin's nocturnes. At the sound of the automobile outside on the avenue
+the countess left her music and ran out on her veranda to meet her young
+visitors. But instead of the four girls a heavy, well-built man in a
+long dust coat and goggles approached the countess. The countess did not
+recognize him at once. A suave voice soon enlightened her. "Madame," it
+said. "I have come to see you on an important matter of business. I must
+see you alone."
+
+"What business can you have with me, Monsieur Duval?" asked the young
+countess coldly. But her voice trembled slightly.
+
+"I bring you news of a friend," declared Mr. Duval quietly.
+
+"I have no friends whom you could know, Monsieur," answered the Countess
+Sophia.
+
+"No?" her visitor replied, shrugging his shoulders and speaking in a
+light bantering tone. "Shall I inform you, then, and your young friends,
+whom I now see approaching?"
+
+Ruth's motor car was now in plain sight. The four girls rushed forward
+to join the countess.
+
+At the same moment the tap-tap of a stick was heard inside the house.
+Madame de Villiers appeared, followed by Johann with a tray of lemonade.
+
+The countess spoke quickly. "No, no, you must say nothing to me, now. I
+cannot listen to you. Please go away."
+
+Bab noticed that the countess was trembling when she took her hand.
+
+Monsieur Duval bowed courteously to Ruth. "Mademoiselle," he declared,
+"I owe you an apology. I fear I am but a poor chauffeur. My car swerved
+in front of yours on the road. It was unpardonable. I offer you many
+thanks for your skill. You saved us from a bad smash-up."
+
+Ruth colored. Hot words rose to her lips. But she feared to say too
+much. She looked at Mr. Duval gravely. "I think, Mr. Duval," she
+remarked, as suavely as the Frenchman could have spoken, "it will be
+wise for you not to run a motor car unless you learn how to handle it
+better. You are right. We were exposed to great danger from your
+carelessness."
+
+Madame de Villiers now gazed sternly at Monsieur Duval. "Have I the
+pleasure of your acquaintance?" she inquired coldly, turning her
+lorgnette on the Frenchman.
+
+Monsieur Duval lost some of his self-assurance in the presence of this
+beak-nosed old lady. "I met you at Mr. Stuart's picnic, Madame," he
+explained. "Good-bye, ladies." Monsieur Duval bowed low. Then he turned
+to the countess. "I will deliver my news to you, Countess Sophia,
+whenever you are pleased to hear it." A moment later the Frenchman
+disappeared. But on his way back to his hotel he smiled. "If life were
+not a lottery it would be too stupid to endure. Yet this is the first
+time in my career that a group of young girls have tried to beat me at
+my own game."
+
+When the Frenchman had finally gone the countess turned to Mollie, and
+kissed her. Then she looked affectionately at Bab, Grace and Ruth.
+
+"You saw my signal, didn't you?" she asked, smiling. "What an energetic
+society to come to me in such a hurry! I really have something to tell
+you. It is something serious. Yet I must ask you to trust me, if I tell
+you only part of a story. I cannot tell you all. As it is much too
+beautiful to stay indoors, suppose we go to my pavilion down by the
+water."
+
+On the way to the boathouse, Ruth stopped to embrace Mollie. "Mollie,
+darling, forgive me!" she whispered. "I promise you never to doubt our
+lovely countess again. She is perfect."
+
+When the Countess Sophia and the four "Automobile Girls" were safely in
+the boathouse, the young hostess sighed. "I am sorry to talk about
+disagreeable things to-day," she murmured. "You cannot understand what a
+pleasure it is to me to know four such charming young girls. I have had
+so few companions in my life. Indeed I have been lonely, always."
+
+The "Automobile Girls" were silent. They hardly knew what to reply.
+
+"I must try to tell you why I sent for you," the countess went on. "I
+want to warn you----"
+
+"About the Count de Sonde?" cried Mollie, who had never gotten over her
+first prejudice.
+
+"Yes," replied the countess slowly. "I think I promised to help you save
+your girl friend Maud Warren. I am afraid she and the count are more
+interested in each other than you girls imagine." The countess faltered
+and looked fearfully about her. "You must not let Miss Warren marry the
+Count de Sonde," she murmured. "You must stop such a wedding at all
+hazards. The Count de Sonde is----"
+
+"Is what?" asked Barbara.
+
+The countess shook her head. Again she blushed painfully. "I cannot tell
+you now," explained the countess. "But I know this. If Miss Warren
+marries the Count de Sonde she will regret it all her life."
+
+"But how can we prevent Maud's marrying the count if she wishes to do
+so?" queried practical Bab. "Unless you can tell us something definite
+against the count, we cannot go to Mr. Warren or Maud. Mr. Warren has
+already forbidden Maud to have anything to do with the Count de Sonde,
+but Maud continually disobeys her father."
+
+"I am sorry," said the young countess hesitatingly. "I wish I dared tell
+you more. But I can explain nothing. Only I warn you to be careful."
+
+"Need we to fear the Frenchman, Monsieur Duval?" Ruth asked
+thoughtfully.
+
+The countess was silent for a moment. Then she said slowly, "You must
+fear him most of all!"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII
+
+MAUD REFUSES TO BE RESCUED
+
+
+When the "Automobile Girls" chaperoned by Miss Sallie, descended to the
+hotel ball room that evening, where a hop was in progress, the orchestra
+was playing the "Blue Danube" and Maud and the Count de Sonde were
+waltzing together. The spectators seated along the wall smiled in spite
+of themselves for the count's style of dancing was far from graceful.
+His idea of waltzing consisted in whirling his partner round and round,
+and as Maud was at least four inches taller than the count and very
+thin, the effect was indescribably ridiculous.
+
+"How absurd the count looks!" Bab exclaimed to Ruth. "Just look at those
+high heels and that strutting walk! Do you suppose Maud Warren can
+really care for him?"
+
+"No; I don't think she cares for him at all," Ruth returned. "It is the
+lure of his title that has fascinated Maud. The title, 'Count de Sonde'
+is like music in her ears."
+
+"Do you think Mr. Warren would disinherit Maud, if she married the
+count?" asked Bab.
+
+Ruth shook her head. "Mr. Warren gave Maud half a million dollars in her
+own name a year ago," Ruth explained. "So, you see, she is an heiress
+already. Besides, Mr. Warren would never forsake Maud. He simply adores
+her. I think he went off on that fishing trip with father just to keep
+from seeing Maud carry on. He thinks Aunt Sallie may be able to
+influence her while he is gone. But do look at Miss Sarah Stuart, Bab!"
+
+Miss Sallie swept down the ball-room floor in a handsome black satin and
+jet evening gown, with Mrs. De Lancey Smythe in her wake.
+
+There was the fire of battle in Miss Stuart's eye. On the widow's cheeks
+burned two flaming signals of wrath.
+
+"Maud Warren was left in my care by her father, Mrs. Smythe," declared
+Miss Sallie. "In Mr. Warren's absence I forbid Maud's going about
+unchaperoned with the Count de Sonde."
+
+"Miss Warren is not a child, Miss Stuart," replied Mrs. De Lancey Smythe
+angrily. "If she chooses to go about with the count I hardly see how you
+can prevent it. The Count de Sonde is a noble, trustworthy young man."
+
+"Miss Warren shall not go with him against my wishes," replied Miss
+Stuart quietly, "and I fail to see how the matter can possibly interest
+you."
+
+Mrs. De Lancey Smythe's voice trembled with rage. "You appear to be
+excessively strict with Miss Warren, Miss Stuart," she returned, "yet
+you allow your niece and her friends to associate, every day, with a
+woman who is entirely unknown to you, a woman about whom this entire
+hotel is talking."
+
+"Whom do you mean?" Miss Sallie demanded. She was exceedingly angry.
+
+"Mean?" Mrs. De Lancey Smythe laughed mockingly. "I mean this so called
+Countess Sophia von Stolberg. She is no more a countess than I am. She
+is a fugitive and a swindler. She will be arrested as soon as there is
+sufficient evidence against her."
+
+The "Automobile Girls" had moved up close to Miss Sallie. They waited to
+hear what she would say in regard to the countess.
+
+"I do not believe the countess to be an impostor. She is our friend,"
+replied Miss Stuart. "I think we need have no further conversation. Miss
+Warren will do as I request." Without answering the other woman moved
+away with flashing eyes and set lips, leaving Miss Sallie in triumphant
+possession of the situation.
+
+In a few moments Maud Warren came over to where Miss Sallie and the
+"Automobile Girls" were still standing.
+
+"Maud, won't you come up to our room to-night after the dance?" Ruth
+urged. "We thought it would be jolly to make some fudge in a chafing
+dish."
+
+"Can you cook?" laughed Maud. "How funny! It is awfully good of you to
+ask me to join you, but I have another engagement for this evening."
+
+"Maud," said Miss Sallie firmly, "your father left you in my charge. I
+cannot permit you to keep an engagement with the Count de Sonde."
+
+Maud was speechless with astonishment. No one had ever forbidden her to
+do anything in her life. Her father had always tried persuasion and
+argument. Ruth's eyes twinkled as she saw the effect Miss Sallie's
+firmness had upon Maud. Greatly to her surprise Maud Warren answered
+quite meekly: "Very well, Miss Stuart. I will not see him if you do not
+wish it."
+
+The "Automobile Girls" breathed a sigh of relief. They had feared
+another battle between Miss Sallie and Maud.
+
+"This is jolly!" exclaimed Maud Warren, an hour later. The five girls
+were in Ruth's sitting-room. They were eating delicious squares of warm
+chocolate fudge.
+
+"I am glad you are enjoying yourself," replied Ruth. "We would be glad
+to see you often, but you always seem to be busy."
+
+Maud tried to look unconscious. "It's the count's fault. The poor fellow
+has a dreadful crush on me," she sighed.
+
+"Do you care for him?" asked Barbara bluntly.
+
+Maud simpered. "I really don't know," she replied. "I think the Count de
+Sonde has a beautiful soul. He tells me I have a remarkable mind--such
+sympathy, such understanding!"
+
+Ruth choked over a piece of fudge. The other girls seemed to regard her
+accident as a tremendous joke. Maud was entirely unconscious that she
+had anything to do with their merriment.
+
+"Then you really like the count very much!" exclaimed Mollie, opening
+her pretty blue eyes so wide that Maud was amused.
+
+"You dear little innocent thing!" returned Miss Warren. "Of course I
+think the count a very interesting man. I don't deny he has taken my
+fancy. But as for being in love with him--well, that is another thing."
+
+"Do you really know anything about the count, Maud?" asked Ruth. "Your
+father doesn't approve of him, and don't you think he knows best?"
+
+"Oh, father never approves of any of my friends," complained Maud Warren
+impatiently. "But Mrs. De Lancey Smythe is on my side. She likes the
+count."
+
+"But do you know much about Mrs. De Lancey Smythe?" Ruth went on.
+
+Maud was nettled. "Mrs. De Lancey Smythe is a Virginian, and belongs to
+an old southern family," she returned.
+
+The "Automobile Girls" looked uncomfortable. It was Ruth who finally
+spoke.
+
+"I hope you won't be angry, Maud. It is only because we like you that I
+am going to tell you something you ought to know. Some one told me to
+warn you to be careful."
+
+"Careful about what?" cried Maud, though her flushed face betrayed the
+answer she expected.
+
+"The Count de Sonde," replied Ruth.
+
+"But what have you heard against him?" demanded Maud indignantly.
+
+It was Ruth's turn to flush. What had she heard? If only the countess
+had been a little less vague in her accusations against the count.
+
+"I am afraid I don't know anything very definite to tell you," Ruth
+confessed, in an embarrassed tone. "Yet we have heard rumors about the
+count. Foreign noblemen are often fortune-hunters, you know."
+
+"My dear Ruth, the Count de Sonde is not in need of money," protested
+Maud. "He is very wealthy. Only the other day he showed me a letter from
+his lawyer. It spoke of two hundred thousand francs. It is true the
+letter was written in French. But the count translated it for me. And
+then, of course, I know a little French myself."
+
+"Oh, well," sighed Ruth, "perhaps we have no right to suspect him. But,
+Maud, I beg of you to go slowly. You may be mistaken in the count. Think
+how you would regret it if you were to marry him and find afterwards
+that he had deceived you."
+
+"Marry the count!" Maud's tones expressed great astonishment, then she
+gave a satisfied laugh. "Don't worry about my affairs. The count is a
+real nobleman," she declared.
+
+A knock sounded at the door, and a bellboy handed Ruth a note. It was
+addressed to Miss Warren. Ruth gave it to her. Maud opened it. A
+gratified smile overspread her face, then turning to the "Automobile
+Girls" she said: "Will you please excuse me, girls, I want to go up to
+my room for a little while. I will be back in a few minutes."
+
+The girls ate their fudge in silence for a time. Maud did not return.
+
+"I wonder if Maud is coming back?" remarked Barbara, after a little.
+"Somehow, I am sorry for Maud. It must be dangerous to be so rich and so
+silly at the same time."
+
+"I am afraid Maud is hopeless," Ruth contended. "I don't believe it is
+going to do the slightest good for us to warn her against the count. I
+wonder if we could manage to save her in any other way?"
+
+Miss Sallie came into the room. "Where is Maud Warren?" she demanded
+immediately.
+
+The "Automobile Girls" could only explain Maud had gone to her room.
+
+Miss Sallie rang the bell, and sent a maid to inquire for Maud.
+
+The answer came back a few moments later. "Miss Warren had left the
+hotel for the evening with several friends."
+
+Miss Stuart said nothing. But the "Automobile Girls" knew Miss Sallie
+would never forgive Maud Warren for her disobedience.
+
+The four girls were almost ready to say good night, when another light
+tap sounded at their door.
+
+The girls lowered their voices. Perhaps Maud had lost heart, and had
+returned to them after all.
+
+Barbara went to the door. It was Marian De Lancey Smythe who had
+knocked. She wished to speak with Bab for a moment.
+
+Five minutes later Barbara returned to her friends, looking considerably
+mystified.
+
+"Now, Barbara Thurston, what did Marian Smythe have to say to you?"
+demanded Mollie. "It is not fair, your having secrets with her from the
+rest of us."
+
+"Oh, Marian asked me if we were going to the countess's to dinner
+to-morrow night," Bab replied.
+
+"What a strange question!" exclaimed Grace Carter. "I don't see why she
+should care where we go to dinner."
+
+"Perhaps she had some plan or other on hand herself that she wanted us
+to take part in," suggested Mollie.
+
+Bab was silent.
+
+"By the way," exclaimed Ruth, "did you know I received a letter to-day
+from darling Olive Prescott? She and Jack have arrived in Paris, and
+have set up housekeeping in the dearest little flat in the Rue de
+Varennes. They live on the top floor, and Jack has the front room for
+his studio. Of course Olive declares Jack is the best husband in the
+world. He is painting Olive's portrait for the Paris Salon, and working
+desperately hard so as to have it finished by April. Come, let's go to
+bed."
+
+Just as Barbara was dropping off to sleep Ruth gave her a little shake.
+
+"Tell me Barbara Thurston, what Marian De Lancey Smythe said to you in
+the hall!"
+
+"I told you, child," murmured Bab hesitatingly.
+
+"Honor bright, did you tell us everything, Bab Thurston?"
+
+"No-o-o, not everything," admitted Bab. "This is exactly what Marian
+said: 'Barbara are you going to dine with the countess to-morrow night?'
+'Yes,' I replied. Then she said: 'You had better not go. But if you do
+go, come home early, and don't ask me the reason, why."
+
+"We'll go, sure as fate!" exclaimed Ruth. "No matter what Marian says."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIII
+
+A SURPRISE PARTY
+
+
+It had been a long day of uninterrupted pleasure for the "Automobile
+Girls"--one of those sparkling, brilliant days that seem to belong
+peculiarly to Florida in the early spring.
+
+All morning the girls had cruised around the lake in a launch. Later in
+the day they had bathed in the salt water of the Atlantic. After
+luncheon they had played several sets of tennis; and, later Miss Sallie
+had taken them to the cocoanut grove to drink lemonade and listen to the
+music.
+
+Miss Sallie had not spoken either to Maud Warren or to Mrs. De Lancey
+Smythe since the evening before. The two women had carefully avoided
+Miss Stuart. Once inside the cocoanut grove Bab's sharp eyes soon
+discovered Maud, Mrs. Smythe and Marian seated at a table concealed by
+an enormous cluster of palms. They were deep in conversation. Mrs.
+Smythe was pouring wholesale flattery into Maud's ears to which the
+foolish girl was listening eagerly.
+
+Marian espied Barbara and came over to greet Miss Sallie and the
+"Automobile Girls." She knew nothing of her mother's difficulty with
+Miss Sallie.
+
+"Marian," whispered Bab, as her new friend sat down next to her, "why
+did you wish to know whether we were going to the countess's to dinner
+to-night?"
+
+"Why do you ask?" said Marian, looking a little frightened.
+
+"Why it sounded to me as though you must have a reason for what you
+said," argued Bab. "Were you trying to warn me about anything? Or, is it
+simply that you do not like the countess?"
+
+"I think the countess is very fascinating," was Marian's only reply.
+
+"Won't you even tell me why you told us to come home early if we did
+go?" persisted Barbara.
+
+Marian gave a forced laugh. "Oh, I was only giving you a little good
+advice about sitting up late. But just the same, I'm a very wise person
+and you had better take my advice."
+
+"What are you two girls whispering about?" asked Ruth gayly. "Never have
+secrets from your little friends. It hurts their feelings, dreadfully."
+
+"We aren't having secrets," responded Barbara. "That is not exactly. I'm
+only trying to persuade Marian to tell me something. But she's a regular
+Sphinx."
+
+"Which would you rather be, a Sphinx or a chatterbox?" inquired Marian.
+"And if you would, why would you, and if thus, why, therefore and
+whereupon?"
+
+"Fine!" exclaimed Ruth. "I never dreamed you could reel off nonsense
+like that, Marian."
+
+Marian laughed then rising said, "I suppose I shall have to go back to
+Mama. I only came over for a minute." Her eyes again met Barbara's, and
+she shook her head slightly, then nodding good-bye to the girls she
+crossed over to where her mother was still conversing with Maud.
+
+"Why did she shake her head at you, Bab?"
+
+"She says again that we must come home early from the villa, to-night,
+but she won't tell me why," replied Bab. "She evidently knows something
+that we don't. She was even more mysterious to-day than she was last
+night. Do you think we had better go?"
+
+"Go! Of course we will," cried Ruth. "I don't believe Marian has
+anything very serious on her mind."
+
+"Really, children," interposed Miss Sallie in an annoyed tone, "if you
+begin to conjure up mystery over so simple a matter as a dinner
+invitation I shall feel obliged to keep you all at home. One would think
+I was chaperoning a party of young sleuths, instead of four normal girls
+out for a holiday."
+
+This remark was received with discreet silence, on the part of the four
+girls, and whatever their thoughts on Marian's warning were they sternly
+repressed uttering them aloud during the remainder of the time spent in
+the grove.
+
+                  *       *       *       *       *
+
+At eight o'clock that night Miss Sallie and the "Automobile Girls" were
+seated about the countess's table with only their hostess and her
+chaperon. There were no other guests at dinner.
+
+"How delightful not to be bored by stupid men!" exclaimed the countess,
+smiling at her circle of guests. "And what a charming picture the young
+girls make, Madame de Villiers, do they not? There is not a black coat
+in our midst to mar the effect of our pretty light frocks. Let me see,
+Miss Stuart wears violet, dear Madame, gray. And the 'Automobile Girls'
+might represent the four seasons. Ruth, you may be Spring, in your pale
+green silk frock; little Mollie will have to play Summer in her corn
+colored gown; Bab's scarlet frock makes me think of October; and Grace
+is our Snow Maiden in her white frock."
+
+The countess wore a beautiful gown of white messaline. Her exquisite
+face was radiant with child-like pleasure. During the dinner the room
+rang with her gay laughter. She had never seemed so young, so gracious,
+and so innocent as she appeared to the "Automobile Girls" that night.
+
+At each plate the countess herself had placed a small bunch of freesias,
+whose delicate perfume filled the room.
+
+"They are my favorite flowers," the hostess explained gently, "because
+they remind me of my beloved Italy."
+
+At the close of dinner a bowl of bon-bons was passed around the table.
+There was a good deal of noise and confusion. The girls popped the
+crackers, drew out the mottoes and read them, and decorated themselves
+with the fancy paper caps. They were too absorbed in their own pleasure
+to think, or hear, or see, anything that might have been taking place
+outside the dining-room. Madame de Villiers, a military cap on her gray
+hair, looked as fierce and terrifying as a seasoned warrior.
+
+Dinner over, the countess led the way into her drawing-room, where the
+laughter and gayety continued. Madame de Villiers played brilliantly on
+the piano. The young people danced until they were exhausted. Suddenly
+the young countess caught her train up over her arm, and ran out into
+the centre of the floor. At a nod from her, Madame de Villiers began to
+play the wild, passionate music of the Russian Mazurka. Then the
+countess danced. Again and again she went through the intricate and
+dramatic figures. Her audience was spellbound. No one noted the flight
+of time.
+
+Finally Bab whispered to Ruth: "Don't you think we had better go
+upstairs for our wraps? It is growing late." The two girls slipped
+quietly away without a word.
+
+Ascending the stairs to the countess's sleeping room they gathered their
+arms full of evening coats and scarfs. On a little balcony just outside
+the window of the sleeping room crouched the figure of a man. His keen
+eyes watched Bab and Ruth intently as they made ready to leave the room
+and join their friends downstairs, entirely unconscious of the figure
+hiding so near to them.
+
+On the first landing of the stairs, Bab stopped. Ruth was ahead.
+
+"Go on, Ruth," Barbara called down to her. "I have left my handkerchief
+on the dressing table. I will be with you in a minute."
+
+Bab ran quickly back to the room she had just left. Her soft satin
+slippers made no sound on the floor. It was almost impossible to hear
+her approach.
+
+Bab paused at the half-open door of the bedchamber in horrified
+surprise. Inside the room that she and Ruth had just left a man bent
+over the countess's desk. Her Russian leather writing-case was wide
+open. The man was running through her papers with a practised hand.
+
+Bab could have turned and run downstairs again. The intruder would never
+have heard her. But, although Barbara shook with fear for a moment, she
+placed her wraps softly on the floor and stepped noiselessly back into
+the room. The man was still unaware of her presence. Bab's eyes roved
+about the room in search of a weapon. Her hand resting for an instant on
+the dressing table, came in touch with something metallic and cold. It
+was a silver shoe horn, but Barbara gripped it eagerly, then she
+fastened her gaze upon the intruder. He was an old man with a shock of
+gray hair and a thick beard, that partially concealed the outline of his
+face. His lips were drawn back until his teeth showed and in his bent
+attitude he reminded Bab of a gigantic ape. Under the concentration of
+her gaze the strange apparition looked up and saw her as she stood
+unflinching, watching with alert eyes his slightest movement. Without
+uttering a sound the man began to move slowly toward her, his fierce
+eyes never for a moment leaving her face.
+
+"What are you doing here?" Bab demanded bravely. "You are a thief!"
+
+Instead of running away from him the girl started toward the man. As she
+did so she raised the shoe horn and pointed it at him. Had the light in
+the room not been turned low he must have discovered the trick. As it
+was the faint light, glinting on the polished metal gave it the
+appearance of a revolver. The ape-like figure began backing slowly
+toward the balcony. At the window he paused, as if debating whether he
+dared take the chance of leaping upon her. Bab settled the question for
+him by making a threatening move with the supposed weapon. The thief
+whirled, sprang out on the balcony and dropped to the ground.
+
+Barbara ran to the window. She saw that he had disappeared, then the
+room began to whirl about her. She thought she was going to faint, for
+she felt her strength rapidly leaving her.
+
+With a great effort she threw off the weakness that was overcoming her
+and looked out across the lawn.
+
+During the early part of the evening a large motor boat cruiser, after
+having put her owner ashore at Palm Beach had dropped down and come to
+anchor for the night hard by the boathouse belonging to the villa
+occupied by Countess Sophia. Lights were twinkling from the port holes
+of the boat and her anchor light swayed listlessly at the stern. There
+were no other signs of life aboard the boat on the bow of which one at
+close range might have made out the word "Restless" in raised gold
+letters.
+
+Barbara wondered if their terrible visitor had come from the boat lying
+there quietly on the moonlit waters.
+
+Just then the buzz of excited voices was borne to her ears. She heard
+the Countess Sophia's clear tones, then an excited little scream,
+mingled with the deep voice of Madame de Villiers raised in angry
+expostulation.
+
+Still gripping her shoe horn Bab raced down the stairs, and parted the
+portières that hung between the drawing room and hall.
+
+What she saw was like the tableau from a melodrama. Crowded close to the
+piano stood the Countess Sophia, while directly in front of her stood
+Madame de Villiers, thoroughly enraged and brandishing her gold-headed
+cane at two men who seemed about to seize the young countess. Clustered
+in a frightened group at one side of the room stood Miss Stuart, Mollie
+and Grace. Ruth was nowhere to be seen.
+
+One of the men made a sudden stealthy move toward the countess.
+
+"Stand back," commanded Madame de Villiers.
+
+Just then Ruth's clear tones were heard outside the villa. "They're in
+that room! Oh, hurry please!"
+
+There was a sound of running feet and into the room darted two young men
+clad in white yachting clothes, and wearing officers' caps.
+
+"We're just in time," called one of the newcomers. "This is something in
+our line of sport. Stand aside, girls. We'll soon have these fellows on
+the run."
+
+With this he grasped one of the men by the collar and dragging him to
+the open hall door, picked him up and threw him off the veranda onto the
+drive where he landed with a thud. A moment later his companion had
+disposed of the other offender in like manner.
+
+"Watch them, Joe," ordered the taller of the two yachtsmen. "If they try
+to enter the house again, call me. I guess we can give them all they're
+looking for. I'm going inside to see if there are any more rascals who
+need attention."
+
+"Oh you brave boys!" exclaimed Madame de Villiers as the young man
+entered the drawing-room where the women were huddled together talking
+excitedly.
+
+"I think the credit belongs to the young woman who had the presence of
+mind to go for help," smiled the youth, bowing to Ruth.
+
+"I had to do something!" exclaimed Ruth. "I saw your boat early in the
+evening, and when those two men came in here and began threatening the
+countess I felt that the only thing to do was to see if some one on the
+yacht would help us."
+
+"Did you see the other man?" asked Barbara anxiously. "He was old and
+white-haired and looked exactly like an ape. He was upstairs on the
+balcony, while I was in the countess's room getting our wraps. Then I
+forgot my handkerchief. When I went back for it he was in the room. I
+frightened him away with a shoe horn. He thought it was a revolver. He
+dropped to the ground from the balcony and ran towards the yacht. I
+thought perhaps he belonged on the boat."
+
+"Not with us," declared the yachtsman. "Allow me to introduce myself. I
+am Captain Tom Halstead and my friend out there on the veranda, is
+Joseph Dawson, engineer of the motor yacht 'Restless' which lies at
+anchor just off the shore. We belong to the 'Motor Boat Club' boys, but
+I doubt if you have ever heard of us before."
+
+Although Tom Halstead and Joe Dawson were strangers to the "Automobile
+Girls" they are well known to the majority of our readers. Born and
+brought up on the Maine coast the ocean was their play ground from early
+boyhood and their fondness for the sea led them to later perfect
+themselves in the handling of motor boats. These two youths with a
+number of other sturdy young men comprised the famous club of young
+yacht skippers and engineers, organized by a Boston broker and headed by
+Halstead as fleet captain, with Dawson as fleet engineer.
+
+The reason for the appearance of the yacht "Restless" at this particular
+place and time is set forth in "The Motor Boat Club in Florida," the
+fifth volume of the "Motor Boat Club Series." That the two young men had
+responded instantly to Ruth's call for help was in itself the best proof
+of the manliness and courage of the "Motor Boat" boys.
+
+The countess who in the meantime had recovered from the first shock of
+the recent disturbance now presented Miss Stuart, Madame de Villiers and
+the "Automobile Girls" to Tom Halstead. A moment later Joe Dawson
+entered the room, and more introductions followed.
+
+"Well, they've gone," declared Dawson. "They picked themselves up very
+slowly and painfully and fairly slunk down the drive. I don't imagine
+they will trouble you again to-night. However we'd better appoint
+ourselves as special watchmen about the grounds until morning. I do not
+wish to seem inquisitive but was the motive of these rascals common
+robbery?"
+
+"The men did not wish money," replied the countess slowly. "They wished
+to steal a certain paper I have in my possession in order to destroy it.
+That is why the old man was searching my writing case. But he did not
+find the paper, for I carry it about my person. Forgive me for being so
+mysterious, and believe that my reason for secrecy is one of grave
+importance."
+
+"There is nothing to forgive, Madam," replied Captain Halstead
+courteously. "We are only too glad to have been of service to you and
+beg that you will continue to accept our services at least until
+to-morrow. Then I would advise you to procure a special officer to
+remain at the villa in case you should be annoyed further by these
+villains."
+
+"Thank you," exclaimed the countess, with evident agitation. "I hardly
+think we shall be troubled again. I do not wish an officer to come
+here."
+
+"We must return to the hotel, Countess," said Miss Stuart. "It is
+growing late and my brother will become uneasy about us."
+
+This time the women were assisted with their cloaks by the "Motor Boat"
+boys and no startling interruption occurred. Ruth ran down the drive a
+little ahead of the party to where her automobile stood. Then she
+uttered a sudden cry of dismay. All four tires had been cut.
+
+"Oh the rascals!" she exclaimed. "How dared they do such a contemptible
+thing? We'll have to go back to the villa and telephone for another car.
+Father will be so worried!"
+
+An indignant babble of feminine voices ensued broken by the deeper tones
+of the two young men as the party turned to go back to the villa.
+
+Just then a familiar sound was borne to their ears. It was the chug!
+chug! of a rapidly approaching automobile. A moment later the car rolled
+up the drive. "It's Father!" Ruth exclaimed. "Oh, I'm so glad."
+
+"What seems to be the trouble, Sallie?" queried Mr. Stuart, springing
+from the car. "It's after midnight. I grew worried when you didn't
+return to the hotel at eleven, so decided I had better come out after
+you. I rather think we exceeded the speed limit too," he laughed,
+turning to the chauffeur.
+
+Then Ruth burst forth with an excited account of the night's adventure.
+Mr. Stuart looked grave. "I shall send you an officer in the morning,
+Countess," he said.
+
+"These are the two young men who came so gallantly to our rescue, Mr.
+Stuart," said the countess, turning to the "Motor Boat" boys who stood
+modestly in the background.
+
+Mr. Stuart shook hands with both young men, thanking them for their
+prompt response to the call for help. "We should be pleased to have you
+dine with us to-morrow evening," he said.
+
+"Thank you," responded the young captain, "but we shall weigh anchor in
+the morning."
+
+After bidding farewell to the two young men and good night to Madame de
+Villiers and the Countess Sophia, the "Automobile Girls" and Miss Sallie
+stepped into the car in which Mr. Stuart had driven to the villa.
+
+"I'll send a man out to put that other car in shape to-morrow," he said
+to Ruth as they sped down the drive. "But, hereafter when this valiant
+band, known as the 'Automobile Girls' pays a visit to the Countess
+Sophia I shall insist upon accompanying them whether or not I am
+invited."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV
+
+THE PLOT THICKENS
+
+
+Maud Warren apologized to Miss Sallie. Mr. Warren had been greatly
+displeased when he heard of his daughter's disobedience, and had
+reprimanded her in such severe terms, that she anxiously endeavored to
+conciliate Miss Stuart at the earliest opportunity. Miss Sallie, however
+received her effusive apology very coldly, and it was some time before
+Maud felt in the least comfortable in her society.
+
+One evening soon after the eventful dinner with the countess, the
+"Automobile Girls" started out for a moonlight stroll accompanied by
+Miss Stuart, Mr. Stuart, Mr. Warren and Maud. Just as they were leaving
+the hotel Marian Smythe appeared on the veranda and was asked to join
+them.
+
+"Where have you been keeping yourself, Marian?" asked Ruth.
+
+Marian flushed.
+
+"I've been very busy," she said hastily. Then as if anxious to change
+the subject: "Have you been to the countess's villa lately?"
+
+"No," replied Ruth quickly. "Not since the dinner there. Have you heard
+anything about her?"
+
+"No," answered Marian shortly, and relapsed into moody silence.
+
+As they strolled leisurely along Barbara who had been walking ahead with
+Miss Stuart, dropped behind with Marian.
+
+"I want to ask you something, Marian," she began.
+
+"Little girls should never ask questions," said Marian lightly, but
+Barbara felt that her apparent unconcern was forced.
+
+"Have you heard about what happened at the villa the night we dined
+there?" persisted Bab.
+
+"I have heard something about it," admitted Marian, in a low voice. "It
+was an attempt to rob the countess, was it not?"
+
+"You could hardly call it robbery," replied Barbara. "The men took
+nothing. But they acted in a very mysterious manner, and there was one
+perfectly hideous old man who was a real burglar for I caught him going
+through the things in the countess's sleeping room, when I went up
+stairs after our wraps. I drove him from the room."
+
+"How did you ever do it, Bab?" asked Marian. There was an expression of
+absolute terror in her eyes.
+
+"You'll laugh when I tell you," replied Bab. "I drove him away with a
+shoe horn."
+
+"A shoe horn?" repeated Marian questioningly. "I don't understand."
+
+"He thought from the way I held it that I had a revolver in my hand,"
+explained Barbara. "You see it was silver and as the light in the room
+was turned low it looked like polished steel. At any rate it answered
+the purpose."
+
+"You are very brave, Bab," said Marian admiringly. "Considering the man
+with whom you had to deal you showed wonderful courage."
+
+"What do you mean, Marian, by 'the man with whom I had to deal'? Who is
+that frightful old man?" asked Barbara, looking searchingly at the other
+girl. "Why did you warn us not to dine with the countess? Did you know
+what was to happen? You must tell me, Marian, for I must know. If the
+countess or any of us is in danger it is your duty to tell me. Can't you
+trust me with your secret, Marian?"
+
+Marian shook her head. Her lip quivered, and her eyes filled with tears.
+
+Barbara waited patiently for her to regain her self-control.
+
+"Bab," she said in a choked voice. "I can't answer your questions. I
+dare not. I am a miserable victim of circumstances, and all I can say is
+that your danger is in being friendly with the countess. She has an
+enemy who will stop at nothing to gain his own end, and he will crush
+you, too, if you stand in his way."
+
+"Tell me, Marian," said Bab eagerly. "Do you know anything about the
+countess?"
+
+"Very little," was the reply, "and that little I may not tell. But this
+I promise you, that no matter what may be the consequences to myself, I
+will warn you in time should any special danger threaten you girls or
+her. That is, if I have the slightest opportunity to do so."
+
+Marian stretched out her hand and Bab clasped it. "Thank you, dear
+Marian," she said. "I know you will keep your word."
+
+After an hour's stroll the party repaired to the hotel veranda, where
+ices and cakes were served to them. Every one, with the exception of
+Maud Warren, was in high good humor. Even Marian emerged from the gloom
+that had enveloped her earlier in the evening, laughing and talking
+merrily with the "Automobile Girls." Maud, however was in a distinctly
+rebellious state of mind. During their walk they had encountered the
+Count de Sonde and Monsieur Duval, and although Mr. Stuart and Mr.
+Warren had exchanged polite civilities with the two Frenchmen, they had
+not invited them to join the party. While Maud, still smarting inwardly
+from her father's recent sharp censure, had not dared to brave Mr.
+Warren's certain anger by doing so. Her only means of retaliation lay in
+sulking, and this she did in the most approved fashion, refusing to take
+part in the conversation, and answering in monosyllables when addressed.
+Ruth and Barbara vainly tried to charm away her sulks by paying her
+special attention, but she merely curled her lip scornfully, and left
+the veranda soon after on plea of headache. Mr. Warren sighed heavily as
+he looked after her retreating figure, but made no comment. Yet his
+friends knew instinctively what was passing in his mind, and the
+"Automobile Girls" solemnly vowed each in her own heart to watch over
+Maud and save her if possible from the schemes of fortune-hunting
+nobility.
+
+"Is there anything more perfect than this Florida moonlight!" asked
+Ruth, during a lull in the conversation, as she leaned back in her chair
+and gazed with half closed eyes at the silvery tropical world before
+her. "Positively, I could sit out here all night!"
+
+"It looks as though we were in a fair way to do so," replied her father,
+glancing at his watch. "Half-past eleven. Time all children were in
+bed."
+
+"Really, Robert, I had no idea it was so late," said Miss Sallie,
+stifling a yawn. "I believe I am sleepy. Come, girls, it is time for us
+to retire."
+
+"Oh, Aunt Sallie!" exclaimed Ruth. "How can you be so cruel?"
+
+"'I must be cruel to be kind,'" quoted Miss Stuart. "If I allow you to
+moon out here until unseasonable hours, you will never get started on
+your picnic to-morrow, at seasonable ones."
+
+"She speaks the truth," said Ruth dramatically, "I will arise and hie me
+to the hay, for come what may, I swear that I will picnic with the rosy
+morn."
+
+"I thought you were going to picnic with us," said Grace flippantly.
+
+"So I am," replied Ruth calmly. "That statement was mere poetical
+license."
+
+"First find your poet," said Bab slyly.
+
+Whereupon there was a chorus of giggles at Ruth's expense, in which she
+good-naturedly joined.
+
+"I'm really more tired than I thought I was," she yawned, a few moments
+later as she sat curled up in a big chair in the room adjoining Miss
+Stuart's which she and Barbara occupied.
+
+"I'm tired and sleepy, too," responded Barbara. "It's almost midnight.
+We'll never get up early to-morrow morning. Oh, dear!" she exclaimed a
+second later, "I've left my pink scarf down on the veranda. It's hanging
+over the back of the chair I sat in. I'll go down this minute and get
+it, before any one has had time to see it or take it away."
+
+Suiting the action to the word Bab hurried out of the room, and along
+the corridor. She did not stop for an elevator but ran lightly down the
+two flights of stairs and out to the veranda. It was but the work of a
+moment to secure her scarf, which hung over the back of the chair, just
+as she had left it. The veranda was deserted except for a group of three
+people who stood at the far end in the shadow. Their backs were toward
+Bab and they were talking earnestly in low voices. Barbara stood
+petrified with astonishment, scarcely able to believe the evidence of
+her own eyes, for the group consisted of Monsieur Duval, Mrs. De Lancey
+Smythe and--enveloped in the pale blue broadcloth cloak Bab had often
+seen her wear was the Countess Sophia.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XV
+
+CAUGHT NAPPING
+
+
+The following morning Barbara awoke with the feeling of one who has
+experienced a disagreeable dream. Was it a trick of her imagination, or
+had she really seen their beautiful young countess deep in conversation
+with Monsieur Duval and Mrs. De Lancey Smythe? True Bab had not seen her
+face, but her height, and carriage--the blue cloak--were unmistakable.
+
+On her return to their room Bab had not mentioned her unpleasant
+discovery to Ruth. She could not bear to voice any actual charge against
+the Countess Sophia. "Perhaps it will all be explained yet," she told
+herself, and with a wisdom far beyond her years, she resolved to be
+silent, at least for the present, about what she had seen.
+
+When the launch which Mr. Stuart had chartered, with its freight of
+picnickers, had put out from shore and headed for the villa, where they
+were to pick up the countess and Madame de Villiers, Barbara had loyally
+decided to let not even the evidence of her own eyes sway her into
+condemning the countess unheard.
+
+On their arrival at the villa they found the countess and Madame de
+Villiers ready and waiting for them, and the sailing party was soon
+comfortably seated in the roomy launch. Madame de Villiers occupied a
+wicker chair opposite Miss Sallie, while the young countess and the
+"Automobile Girls" had stretched a steamer rug over the roof of the
+small cabin, and lay upon it in picturesque attitudes under their
+sunshades.
+
+There was a churning of the propeller, a shrill toot from the whistle,
+and the launch glided out over the water as smoothly as a canoe rides
+down stream.
+
+"We're off!" cried Mr. Stuart joyously.
+
+"I believe you are just a great boy still, Robert," smiled Miss Sallie
+indulgently.
+
+The day's excursion had been arranged by Mr. Stuart. He was an
+enthusiastic fisherman, and on his return from the fishing expedition
+with Mr. Warren he at once began to plan a similar excursion for the
+"Automobile Girls," extending his invitation to the countess and Madame
+de Villiers.
+
+It was an ideal day for a picnic. The sun shone brilliantly down on Palm
+Beach, making it look like an enchanted land. The bathers were out in
+full force. A little farther up the beach countless flower-trimmed hats
+and many-hued parasols made gorgeous blots of color along the white
+sands. Overhead the sky was an intense blue, and the water reflected the
+blueness in its depths.
+
+"You can never understand how happy this makes me," declared the
+countess, bestowing an enchanting smile upon the little company. "Mr.
+Stuart, we thank you for the many pleasures you have given Cousine and
+me. Someday I hope I may be able to do something for you."
+
+"Wait until the picnic is over before you thank me, Countess," replied
+her host. "The fishing may bore you, especially if the fish don't bite."
+
+"Ah, well," laughed the countess, "I could fish patiently all day, under
+a sky like this without complaining, if I were to catch nothing but a
+minnow."
+
+Mr. Stuart's fishing party had made an early start. They were to land
+some miles up the coast, where those who were not of a mind to fish
+could make themselves comfortable on shore.
+
+The journey was not a short one. It was well past eleven o'clock when
+they landed on a hard shell beach, broken here and there by patches of
+marsh grass.
+
+"You are especially privileged to be allowed to set foot on these
+shores," Mr. Stuart assured his guests, as he handed them out of the
+launch. "The location of this place has been kept a secret; otherwise it
+would be overrun with tourists and excursionists."
+
+"Is it so beautiful?" Ruth inquired.
+
+"Wait until you see it!" was Mr. Stuart's reply.
+
+The beach sloped upward so as to form a wall that completely hid the
+land behind it from view.
+
+Ruth and Barbara ran on ahead.
+
+"Oh, Father," cried Ruth excitedly. "This is a surprise!"
+
+The two girls were looking down into a beautiful little dell. It was
+like a tiny oasis, with a sand wall on one side of it, and a mass of
+palmettoes, oak trees and cocoanut palms encircling it on the other
+three sides. The ground was carpeted thickly with violets. Yellow
+jasmine and elder flowers gleamed through the foliage. The branches of
+the oak trees were draped with gray Spanish moss, which made quite a
+sombre background for the gay tropical scene.
+
+"This is to be your drawing-room and dining-room, Madame," declared Mr.
+Stuart, as he helped Madame de Villiers over the sandy hillock. "You may
+do whatever you like here. You may pull the violets, or walk on them.
+There are no park rules."
+
+"Was there ever such a place in the world!" exclaimed Countess Sophia.
+"I shall not leave it until we sail for home. The most wonderful of sea
+trout could not lure me from this enchanting spot."
+
+"We shall stay here, too," agreed Mollie and Grace. "I would rather
+gather violets than catch gold fish," Mollie assured Mr. Stuart.
+
+The wicker chairs were brought from the launch, so that Madame de
+Villiers and Aunt Sallie could be comfortable in their sylvan retreat.
+Ruth and Barbara went off with Mr. Stuart on the quest for fish, while
+the young countess, Mollie and Grace gathered wild flowers and made
+wreaths of the sweet-smelling yellow jasmine.
+
+Grace ran with her crown of wild jasmine and placed it on Miss Sallie's
+soft white hair. The countess placed her wreath on Madame de Villiers's
+head.
+
+  "Oh, happy day, Oh, day so dear!"
+
+sang Countess Sophia as she stuck one of the beautiful yellow flowers
+into her dark hair and danced with Mollie over the sands.
+
+It was a happy day indeed--one that the little party would never forget!
+Mysteries and unanswered questions were banished. Even Bab forgot for
+the time being all disquieting thoughts. The lovely young countess, with
+her eyes full of an appealing tenderness, had driven away all ugly
+suspicion.
+
+Several hours later the fishing party returned.
+
+"See what we've got!" Ruth exclaimed proudly, as she ran up the sand
+hill flourishing a string of speckled sea trout.
+
+"Miss am sho a lucky fisherman," agreed the old colored man in whose
+boat Mr. Stuart and the two girls had been fishing.
+
+"But where are your fish, Barbara?" Grace inquired.
+
+Mr. Stuart laughed. "Bab is the unluckiest fisherman that ever threw out
+a line," he explained. "Shall I tell them, Bab?"
+
+Barbara flushed. "Oh, go ahead," she consented.
+
+"Well," Mr. Stuart continued, "Miss Barbara Thurston caught a tarpon a
+yard long this morning."
+
+"Where is it?" cried the waiting audience.
+
+"Back in the sea, whence it came, and it nearly took Mistress Bab along
+with it," Mr. Stuart answered. "When Barbara caught her tarpon, she
+began reeling in her line as fast as she could. But the tarpon was too
+heavy for it, and the line broke. Then Bab prepared to dive into the
+ocean after her fish."
+
+"I was so excited I forgot I did not have on my bathing suit," Bab
+explained. "I thought, if I could just dive down into the water, I could
+catch my tarpon, and then Mr. Stuart could pull us both back into the
+boat."
+
+"Reckless, Barbara!" cried Miss Stuart. "What will you do next!"
+
+"Don't scold, Aunt Sallie," Ruth begged. "It was too funny, and Father
+and I caught hold of Bab's skirts before she jumped. Then old Jim, the
+colored man, got the fish. So we had a good look at him without Bab's
+drowning herself. But when we found that the catch was a tarpon, and not
+good to eat, Father flung it back in the water."
+
+While Mr. Stuart and the girls were talking, Jim and the engineer from
+the launch built a fire. They were soon at work frying the fish for
+luncheon.
+
+Nobody noticed that a small naphtha launch had been creeping cautiously
+along the coast. It was sheltered from view by the bank of sand. And it
+managed to hide itself in a little inlet about a quarter of a mile away
+from Mr. Stuart's larger boat.
+
+After a hearty luncheon no one had much to say. The "Automobile Girls"
+were unusually silent. Finally they confessed to being dreadfully
+sleepy. There is something in the soft air of Florida that compels
+drowsiness. Miss Sallie and Madame de Villiers nodded in their chairs.
+Mr. Stuart, the countess and the four girls stretched themselves on the
+warm sand. Jim slept under the lea of his small fishing boat, and the
+engineer of the launch went to sleep on the sand not far from the
+water's edge.
+
+For nearly an hour the entire party slumbered. All at once Mr. Stuart
+awoke with a feeling that something had happened. He rubbed his eyes,
+then counted the girls and his guests. Miss Sallie was safe under the
+shadow of her parasol, which had been fixed over her head. Madame de
+Villiers sat nodding in her chair.
+
+The afternoon shadows had begun to lengthen; a fresh breeze was stirring
+the leaves of the palm trees. But, except for the occasional call of a
+mocking bird, not a sound could be heard.
+
+Mr. Stuart waited. Did he not hear a faint noise coming from the
+direction of his launch. "The engineer has probably gone aboard!" Mr.
+Stuart thought.
+
+"It is high time we were leaving for home," said he to himself.
+
+But as he stepped to the edge of the embankment he saw his engineer
+still lying on the ground sleeping soundly.
+
+A small boat like a black speck disappeared around a curve in the shore.
+
+"What on earth does that mean?" cried Mr. Stuart. Leaping over the sandy
+wall he ran toward his engineer. Mr. Stuart shook him gently. The man
+opened his eyes drowsily, yawned then raising himself to a sitting
+position, looked stupidly about.
+
+"A strange boat has just put out from here," said Mr. Stuart quietly.
+"We had better go out to the launch and see if all is well."
+
+The engineer rose to his feet, and still stupid from his heavy sleep,
+followed Mr. Stuart to the dinghy. The sound of voices aroused old Jim
+who clambered to his feet blinking rapidly.
+
+Mr. Stuart and the engineer pushed off toward the launch, each feeling
+that he was about to come upon something irregular. Their premonitions
+proved wholly correct. The engine room of the pretty craft was a total
+wreck. The machinery had been taken apart so deftly, it seemed as though
+an engineer alone could have accomplished it, while the most important
+parts of the engine were missing.
+
+"Whose work is this?" ejaculated Mr. Stuart, clenching his fists in
+impotent rage. Suddenly it dawned upon him what the wrecking of his
+launch meant. He was on an uninhabited shore with seven women, his
+engineer, and colored servant, with no prospect of getting away that
+night.
+
+He felt in his pockets. A pen-knife was his only tool or weapon.
+
+Mr. Stuart rowed back to shore to break the disagreeable news to the
+members of his party. But the sleepers were awake on his return. They
+had seen Mr. Stuart row hurriedly out to the launch with the engineer,
+and surmised instantly that something had happened.
+
+"Oh, dear, oh, dear!" wailed the countess, when Mr. Stuart had explained
+their plight. "Must I always bring ill-luck to you?"
+
+"Nonsense!" expostulated Mr. Stuart. "How could the wrecking of our
+engine have any connection with you, Countess?"
+
+Old Jim who still stood blinking and stretching now began to vaguely
+grasp the situation.
+
+"'Scuse me ladies," he mumbled. "I spects I'se jest been nappin' a
+little. I ain't been 'zactly asleep."
+
+The "Automobile Girls" laughed, in spite of the difficulties which
+confronted them.
+
+"Oh no, you haven't been asleep," Mr. Stuart assured him, "but that nap
+of yours was a close imitation of the real thing."
+
+Jim grinned sheepishly and hung his woolly head. "I 'low nothin' bad
+ain't happened, suh."
+
+"Something bad certainly has happened. In fact about as bad as it well
+could be, Jim," declared Mr. Stuart. "Some wretch has tampered with the
+engine of our launch and left us high and dry on this lonely shore. We
+must do something and that something quickly. It's getting late, and we
+don't want to spend the night here, lovely as the place is. Where's the
+nearest house or village?"
+
+"Lor', suh," exclaimed old Jim. "This am a lonesome spot. There ain't no
+village no wheres round heah!"
+
+"But where is the nearest house, then?" demanded Mr. Stuart.
+
+The darkey scratched his head reflectively.
+
+"Ole Miss Thorne might take you in, Massa. Her place am about two miles
+from here. She's my old missis. I live thar. I jest comes down here and
+helps fishin' parties to land and takes them out in my boat in the
+daytime. Nights I sleeps at my old missis's place. She comes of a fine
+family she do. But she's a little teched in the head, suh."
+
+"All right, Jim; show us the way to the house. But how are we to find a
+horse and wagon? My sister and Madame de Villiers will not care to walk
+that distance."
+
+"I got an old horse and wagon hitched near here, Massa," Jim returned.
+"I come over in it this morning."
+
+Mr. Stuart finally installed Miss Sallie, Madame de Villiers, and the
+young countess in the bottom of Jim's old wagon. He also stored their
+lunch baskets away under the seats. Food might be precious before they
+found their way back to their hotel.
+
+Then Jim started his patient old horse, while Mr. Stuart and the
+"Automobile Girls" followed the wagon which led the way along a narrow
+road through the heart of the jungle.
+
+But before leaving the deserted shore, Mr. Stuart went back to the
+launch. He tacked a note on the outside of the cabin. The note explained
+the accident to their engine. It also stated that Mr. Stuart and his
+party had gone to seek refuge at the home of a Miss Thorne, two miles
+back from the shore.
+
+Mr. Stuart did not believe the wrecker would return to the boat. He had
+accomplished his evil purpose. But Mr. Stuart did hope that another
+launch might visit the coast either that evening or in the early
+morning. Therefore he requested that any one who discovered his letter
+would come to Miss Thorne's home for his party.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI
+
+WELCOME AND UNWELCOME GUESTS
+
+
+The sun was just sinking when Mr. Stuart's weary cavalcade stopped in
+front of a great iron gate. The gate was covered with rust and hung
+loose on its hinges. It opened into a splendid avenue of cypress trees.
+As far as the eye could see on each side of the road, ran overgrown
+hedges of the Rose of Sharon. The bushes were in full bloom and the
+masses of white blossoms gleamed in the gathering shadows like lines of
+new fallen snow.
+
+"How beautiful!" exclaimed the four "Automobile Girls" in chorus.
+
+Mr. Stuart looked anxiously up the lonely avenue as his party stumbled
+along the rough road and peered cautiously into the hedge first on one
+side then on the other. It would have been easy for an army to hide
+itself in the cover of the thicket, which hemmed them in on all sides in
+an impenetrable wall of green.
+
+"I feel extremely uneasy, Robert," declared Miss Sallie, her face pale
+under the stress of the day's experiences.
+
+Old Madame de Villiers smiled and shrugged her shoulders. "I have no
+fear for myself," she said. "My husband is a soldier. I have followed
+him through two great wars. What comes must come. It is all in the day's
+business. But the countess, she is different. She is in my charge;
+nothing must happen to her. I assure you, Mr. Stuart, it is of the
+utmost importance that the Countess Sophia be protected."
+
+Miss Sallie held her head very high. Madame de Villiers was their guest,
+so Miss Stuart would say nothing. But why should Madame de Villiers
+think the safety of the Countess Sophia of more importance than that of
+the four "Automobile Girls?" Miss Sarah Stuart had other ideas. She was
+equally determined that no harm should overtake any one of her charges.
+
+The narrow avenue finally broadened into a lawn overgrown with flowers
+and vines. Back of it stood an old house that had once been a fine
+colonial mansion. The house seemed to frown on the intruders, who had
+come to destroy its sacred quiet.
+
+"I should think anybody might be 'teched' in the head, who lived alone
+in a queer place like this," whispered Ruth to Bab, as the two girls
+stood with their arms about each other, staring ahead of them.
+
+"Will you see Miss Thorne first, Jim, and explain our plight to her?"
+Mr. Stuart asked the old colored man. "Or do you think it would be
+better to have me make matters clear?"
+
+"I'll do the 'splainin', Massa," returned old Jim. "My missis will allus
+listen to me. I done tole you she wasn't jes' like other folks."
+
+"Is your mistress insane, Jim?" inquired Miss Sallie anxiously.
+
+"No-o, ma'am," returned the old man. "Miss Thorne she ain't crazy. She's
+puffectly quiet, suh, and she's all right on every subject 'cept one. I
+hates to tell you what that thing is."
+
+"Out with it, Jim. What is the lady's peculiarity?"
+
+"She imagines, suh, that her fambly is still with her, her own ma and
+pa, and young massa, and her sister Missy Lucy. Missy Rose ain't never
+been married."
+
+"Where is her family, Jim?" Ruth asked.
+
+"They lies yonder in the buryin' ground, Missy," replied the old darkey,
+pointing toward a clearing some distance from the house, where a few
+white stones gleamed in the twilight.
+
+Miss Sallie shuddered. Grace and Mollie huddled close to her, while Ruth
+and Bab gave each other's hands re-assuring pressures.
+
+"Do you look after this Miss Thorne?" Mr. Stuart inquired further.
+
+"Yes, suh; me and my wife Chloe looks after her. Chloe cooks and I works
+about the place when I'se not down to the beach with my boat. But my
+missus ain't so poor. She's got enough to git along with. I jest likes
+to earn a little extra."
+
+By this time Jim had climbed down from his shaky old wagon. He now
+opened the front door.
+
+"Walk right in," he said hospitably, making a low bow. "I'll go find
+Miss Rose."
+
+Mr. Stuart's party entered a wide hall that seemed shrouded in
+impenetrable gloom. On the walls hung rows of family portraits. The
+place was inexpressibly dismal. The "Automobile Girls" kept close to Mr.
+Stuart. In silence they waited for the appearance of the mistress of the
+house.
+
+Two candles flickered in the dark hallway. Out of the gloom emerged an
+old lady, followed by her two servants, who were bearing the lights. She
+was small and very fragile. She wore a gray silk gown of an old
+fashioned cut. Her dress was ornamented with a bertha and cuffs of
+Duchess lace.
+
+The old lady advanced and held out her small hand. "I am pleased to
+offer you shelter," she declared to Mr. Stuart. "Jim has explained your
+predicament to me. We shall be only too happy to have you stay with us
+for the night."
+
+At the word "we," the "Automobile Girls" exchanged frightened glances.
+Their hostess was alone. But that one word "we" explained the situation.
+Did she mean that all the ghosts of her past still waited in the house
+to welcome unexpected visitors?
+
+"It has been many years since we have had guests in our home," continued
+Miss Thorne. "But I think we have rooms enough to accommodate you."
+
+Chloe conducted Miss Sallie, Madame de Villiers, the Countess Sophia and
+the four "Automobile Girls" into a great parlor. The room was furnished
+with old fashioned elegance. Candles burned on the high mantel shelves.
+But the dim lights could not dispel the shadow of desolation that
+pervaded the great room.
+
+A few minutes later Miss Thorne entered the room. "You must tell me your
+names," she inquired sociably. "I wish to run upstairs and tell Mama
+about you. Poor Mama is an invalid or she would come down to see you."
+
+Then calling Chloe to her, she said in a loud whisper:
+
+"Notify Miss Lucy and Master Tom at once. Papa can wait. He is busy in
+the library."
+
+An uncanny silence followed Miss Thorne's speech. Every one of the seven
+women looked unhappy and Mr. Stuart tried vainly to conceal a sense of
+uneasiness. But Chloe quietly beckoned the party from the room.
+
+"I'll jes' show the ladies upstairs," she explained gently and her
+mistress made no objection.
+
+Miss Sallie would on no account sleep alone in such a dismal house. She
+shared a large chamber with Ruth and Bab. The countess asked to spend
+the night with Mollie and Grace, and Madame de Villiers, who was afraid
+of nothing, had a room to herself. Mr. Stuart went up to the third
+floor.
+
+"Let us talk and laugh and try to be cheerful, girls," proposed the
+countess. "This poor old soul is quite harmless, I believe, and she
+seems very sad. Perhaps we may be able to cheer her a little."
+
+"All right, my lovely countess," replied Mollie. "Ghosts or no ghosts,
+we will do our best. But don't count on me for much merriment. I'm a
+dreadful coward." Mollie looked over her shoulder with a shudder.
+
+The countess and Grace laughed, but quickly their laugh died.
+
+The sound of weird music floated up through the dark hall. Their
+hostess, Miss Thorne, was playing the tall harp that stood in the
+parlor.
+
+"Goodness!" cried Miss Sallie, "what will that poor soul do next? I
+should not be in the least surprised if the entire departed family were
+given places at supper to-night." Which was exactly what happened. Four
+empty chairs were left at the table.
+
+"Miss Thorne," said Mr. Stuart, when they were all seated, "could you
+not be persuaded to visit the outer world? It would give my sister and
+me much pleasure if you would spend a few days with us at Palm Beach."
+
+A spark of pleasure lit up the hostess's faded eyes for an instant. Then
+she shook her head sadly.
+
+"You are most kind, sir, but I am much needed at home. Lucy, my sister,
+is quite delicate, you see. And Mama is an invalid."
+
+Miss Sallie touched her brother's foot under the table, as a signal to
+keep away from dangerous topics. But what topic was not dangerous?
+
+"How charmingly you play the harp, Miss Thorne," ventured the countess,
+when they had somewhat recovered themselves.
+
+"Ah," exclaimed the poor woman, smiling archly, "you must praise the
+right person, my dear. It was my sister Lucy who was playing."
+
+Miss Sallie dropped her fork with a loud clatter, while Mollie slipped
+her hand into the countess's and the other three girls linked their feet
+under the table, girl fashion.
+
+Jim, who, in an old black coat, was waiting on the table, smiled grimly
+and mumbled to himself.
+
+"But, young ladies," cried Miss Thorne, "you are not eating."
+
+As a matter of fact the supper was delicious; biscuits as light as snow
+flakes, broiled sea trout, potatoes roasted in their jackets and
+preserves in delicate cut glass bowls. But who could enjoy a banquet
+under such conditions? The two candles seemed to accentuate the
+blackness of the shadows which gathered at the edges of the room. The
+guests tried to laugh and talk, but gradually gloomy silence settled
+upon them. Miss Thorne appeared to have forgotten where she was and Mr.
+Stuart observing the uneasiness of the whole party remarked that as they
+had had a long day it would be well to retire early.
+
+As they were about to rise from the table a sudden exclamation from the
+countess who sat at the lower end of the table caused all eyes to turn
+toward her in startled inquiry. She was staring at the open window in
+fascinated terror, unable for the moment to do anything save point to
+the opening which was swathed in shadows.
+
+"A horrible old man!" she at last managed to articulate. "I saw him
+looking in at us!"
+
+"What old man?" demanded Mr. Stuart.
+
+"He was white haired and looked like a great ape," she gasped.
+
+"Why that's the man whom I drove out of your room the other night,
+Countess," exclaimed Bab. "What can his object be in following you?"
+
+"Come, my man," commanded Mr. Stuart, turning to the engineer who sat
+beside him, "and you too, Jim, we'll search the grounds. I believe that
+this formidable old man can tell us something about the wrecking of the
+engine. Let's get after him at once!"
+
+Old Jim lost no time in procuring lanterns, and a thorough search of the
+grounds was made. The women meantime remained in the dining room, but
+now that the first effects of their fright had worn off, they prepared
+to give their fearsome intruder a warm reception should he again show
+himself. Madame de Villiers moved her chair to one side of the open
+window, her heavy cane in both hands, ready for instant use. While
+Barbara took up her station at the other side grasping firmly the heavy
+silver teapot that had been in the Thorne family for generations. Ruth
+guarded the door at one end, brandishing ferociously a heavy carving
+knife she had appropriated from a set on the old fashioned side-board,
+while Mollie, bravely, held the fort, at the other door with the fork.
+The countess half laughing, half shuddering, clung to a heavy cut glass
+water bottle, while Miss Sallie had prepared to meet the enemy with a
+huge bottle of cayenne pepper, which she had taken from the
+old-fashioned silver castor.
+
+[Illustration: The Countess Pointed Toward the Open Window.]
+
+ "There is nothing like being prepared," said Ruth with a hysterical
+laugh, after ten minutes had passed, and the enemy had not shown
+himself. "I'm going to get a chair and be comfortable." Mollie followed
+suit, and the watchers sat valiantly alert, as the minutes dragged by.
+
+Miss Thorne chattered voluably to and about her family, paying very
+little attention to her strangely-behaved guests, while Chloe, the old
+servant, huddled in one corner, her eyes rolling with fright at every
+sound she heard.
+
+At last the welcome sound of men's voices was heard and Mr. Stuart,
+followed by the engineer and old Jim, entered at Mollie's door.
+
+"What kind of desperado organization is this?" he exclaimed, laughing in
+spite of himself at the ludicrous appearance this feminine vigilant
+committee made.
+
+"It's war to the knife," cried Ruth.
+
+"And the fork, too, I should say," laughed her father, "also the teapot,
+and--what on earth are you cherishing so fondly, Sallie?"
+
+"Cayenne pepper," responded Miss Sallie, "and I consider myself well
+armed, at that."
+
+"I should rather think so," agreed her brother. "However you are all
+safe in laying down your arms, for we have searched diligently, and can
+find no trace of the intruder. He evidently heard the countess and made
+a quick get away. You must pardon us, Madam, for stirring up your quiet
+home in this manner," he said, bowing to Miss Thorne. "I trust we shall
+meet with no further disagreeable adventures."
+
+"You have not disturbed either Lucy or me in the least," declared the
+demented old woman graciously. "As for Papa and Mama they dearly love to
+have visitors." She smiled sweetly and at once began a one-sided
+conversation with her departed parents.
+
+"Do take us away from her," whispered Ruth to her father. "She has been
+addressing the shades of her family ever since you left us, and it's
+getting on our nerves."
+
+"With your kind permission, Miss Thorne, we shall retire," said Mr.
+Stuart, and the seven tired women gladly followed him through the
+shadowy hall and up the wide stairs, to their respective sleeping rooms.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII
+
+THE MIDNIGHT INTRUDER
+
+
+Once in their rooms the drooping spirits of the picnickers revived,
+somewhat. It was a fine night, the air warm and fragrant. The windows of
+the sleeping rooms were wide open and the moonlight streamed across the
+floor, filling the whole place with its soft radiance.
+
+"Oh look!" cried Grace, going over to the open window. "What a darling
+balcony! I believe the other rooms all open out on it too. Good-bye,"
+she called to Mollie and the countess, as she stepped nimbly over the
+sill. "I'm going to make a call."
+
+Grace had hardly disappeared, before the countess went quickly to the
+door, closed it, then came back to Mollie, her finger on her lip.
+Drawing Mollie over to one corner of the room, where they could not be
+observed from the outside, the countess whispered. "Mademoiselle Mollie,
+I believe you love me and trust me, even more than do your friends, and
+because of this I am going to ask you to do me a very great favor."
+
+Mollie's blue eyes looked lovingly up into the dark eyes of the
+countess. So fervent was her feeling of adoration for this fascinating
+stranger that she was prepared to grant any favor that lay within her
+power. "I should dearly love to help you in any way I can," she said
+earnestly. "You make me very, very happy."
+
+The countess kissed her.
+
+"Dear child," she continued, "the thing I am going to ask seems simple
+enough, but some day you will understand how much it means to me. Wait a
+moment," she added almost under her breath. "There is some one whom I
+hold in such dread that, even in this desolate and far-away place, he or
+his confederate might be listening."
+
+She looked about her cautiously, then went to the window and anxiously
+scanned the balcony. It was quite empty. Her eyes searched the long
+avenue leading to the grove that looked like a huge black spot in the
+moonlight. Then she returned to Mollie and said softly, "I am not afraid
+of ghosts, and neither are you, Mollie, I am sure, because there are no
+such things; but this place fills me with foreboding. It is so lonesome,
+so utterly dismal. What was that? I thought I heard a noise below. Did
+you hear anything?"
+
+"Perhaps it was Jim closing up for the night," replied Mollie, pressing
+close to the countess for comfort. "But what was the favor? I will do
+anything for you."
+
+"This is it," answered the countess, her voice again dropping to a
+whisper. "Will you, for a few days, carry a paper for me? It is a very
+dangerous paper, dangerous, that is, because some one else wishes it,
+but it is a very valuable one to me because I may need it, and if you
+will keep it safely hidden until I do need it, you will not only be
+doing me a service but Mademoiselle Warren also."
+
+Mollie looked puzzled. The countess's words were shrouded in mystery.
+
+"Does it concern the Count de Sonde, too?" she asked breathlessly.
+
+"Yes," replied the countess; "it concerns him very intimately. Will you
+do this for me, little Mollie? I know now that the paper is not safe
+either in my house or on me. It would be quite safe with you, however.
+Even my enemy would never think of that, and, if anything should happen
+to me, you may produce the paper at once. Give it to Mr. Stuart. He will
+know what should be done."
+
+The countess took from her dress a square, flat chamois bag which
+fastened with a clasp and evidently contained a document of some sort.
+
+"Fasten it into your dress with this pin," she said, "and keep the pin
+as a memento of our friendship."
+
+And the pin, as Mollie saw later, was no ordinary affair, but a broad
+gold band on which was a beautifully enameled coat of arms.
+
+"Is this another secret session?" cried Ruth's voice gayly from the
+window.
+
+The two conspirators started nervously.
+
+"Come into our room," Ruth continued. "Papa has sent up the luncheon
+hamper. There are still some sandwiches and fruit left; likewise a box
+of candy. We were too frightened to have appetites at supper, but I
+think a little food, now, will cheer us mightily."
+
+"This looks quite like a boarding-school spread," exclaimed Miss Sallie
+as they gathered around the feast. "But it is really a good idea. I feel
+that this little midnight luncheon might help me keep up my courage
+until I get to sleep."
+
+"What a jolly little feast," cried the Countess Sophia. "I am quite
+beginning to take heart again after that fearful ordeal below. I had a
+feeling all the time that the chairs were not really empty."
+
+"Goodness me!" cried Grace, "do change the subject, or we shall be
+afraid to go to bed at all."
+
+"And I move that we take to our couches at once," said Ruth, "while we
+have the courage to do so. Madame de Villiers, are you not afraid to
+sleep alone?"
+
+"Not in the least, my dear. I am not afraid of the most courageous ghost
+that ever walked. I believe I will retire at once. I am very tired."
+
+Taking one of the candles which stood in a row on the mantel, making a
+cheerful illumination, the stately old woman bade them good night, and
+the tapping of her stick resounded through the empty hall.
+
+Soon after Grace, Mollie and the countess stepped through the window,
+and down the balcony to their room.
+
+"You'd better close your shutters," called Grace over her shoulder.
+"We're going to."
+
+"And lose all this glorious moonlight?" asked Ruth. "Never. This balcony
+is too high from the ground for any one to climb up, easily, and
+besides, old Jim is going to be on guard to-night. Aunt Sallie thinks we
+had better try to make ourselves comfortable without doing much
+undressing. Even if we don't sleep very well to-night, we can make up
+for it when we get back to the hotel." With these words Ruth blew out
+the candles and five minutes later, their shoes and outer clothing
+removed, she and Barbara and Miss Sallie were fast asleep.
+
+Grace and Mollie, however, struggled vainly with the heavy wooden
+shutters, but try as they might they could not succeed in closing them
+tightly. After some subdued laughter and many exclamations they
+abandoned their task in disgust, and blowing out their candles prepared
+themselves for sleep.
+
+At midnight Ruth awoke with a start. She had a distinct sensation that
+some one had been looking into her face. But the room was still flooded
+with moonlight, and she could see plainly that, except for her sleeping
+companions, no one was there. She turned over and closed her eyes again,
+but the sudden waking had driven sleep away.
+
+Was that a noise?
+
+Ruth held her breath and listened. There was not a sound except the
+regular breathing of Miss Sallie.
+
+Ruth lay with every nerve strained to catch the lightest footfall. In a
+moment it came again, very faint but still distinct. Something--some
+one--moved somewhere.
+
+She sat up in bed and touched Barbara lightly on the cheek.
+
+Barbara opened her eyes slowly then sat up. Ruth pointed to the next
+room. The two girls listened intently. Again there was the sound, a
+soft, a very soft footfall on a creaking board.
+
+Cautiously the two girls climbed from the bed and crept over to the door
+between the two rooms. On a small bed at the far side of the room lay
+the countess, sleeping soundly. Grace and Mollie also were fast asleep
+in the other bed. Suddenly Ruth gripped Bab's arm. The eyes of both
+girls were riveted on the old fashioned dressing table in one corner of
+the room. Before it stood the same terrible old man that Bab had seen at
+the villa. He was examining minutely every thing on the dresser. Next he
+turned his attention to the girls' walking suits which hung over the
+backs of the chairs. He searched the pockets of the coats, the linings,
+and even the hems of the skirts.
+
+"He is certainly looking for a paper," Barbara thought, as she watched
+him make his systematic search, "and he certainly has something to do
+with the countess's affairs."
+
+Barbara's mind reverted to the group she had seen on the hotel veranda,
+the night before. What was the explanation of it all? Was the countess
+really an impostor and why, when she evidently feared Monsieur Duval and
+ignored Mrs. De Lancey Smythe, did she hold interviews late at night
+with them? She had distinctly refused the "Automobile Girls'"
+invitations to the hotel, yet she had not refused to meet others there.
+And what part could this ferocious looking old man possibly have in the
+drama?
+
+All this passed rapidly through Bab's mind as with her hand clasped
+tightly in Ruth's the two girls watched the intruder with bated breath.
+To Bab there was something strangely familiar about him, his movements
+suggested some one she had seen before, yet she could find no place in
+her memory for him.
+
+Failing to find what he desired, the old man again turned toward the
+countess a look of indescribable menace on his face. He took a step
+toward her then--a sudden burst of weird music floated up from the
+gloomy drawing room. With a smothered exclamation the intruder whirled
+and making for the window swung himself over the ledge. Ruth clutched
+Barbara for support. She was trembling with fear.
+
+"Don't be frightened, dear," soothed Bab bravely. "That isn't ghost
+music. It's only Miss Thorne playing the harp. It's an unearthly hour
+for music, but she couldn't have begun to play at a more opportune
+moment, either. I believe that frightful old man thought it was ghost
+music. Just listen to it. It's enough to give any one the creeps."
+
+The demented old woman played on in a wailing minor key, and presently
+footsteps were heard coming down the hall. By this time Mollie, Grace
+and the countess were wide awake and seeing Bab and Ruth in their room
+demanded to know what had happened. A moment later Madame de Villiers
+and Miss Sallie, both fully dressed, entered the room.
+
+"No more sleep for me to-night," announced Miss Stuart firmly. "I feel
+that the sooner morning comes and we get out of this house the better
+pleased I shall be."
+
+At that instant a melancholy strain like the wail of a lost soul rose
+from down stairs. Then all was silent.
+
+"I begin to believe it is the departed spirit of her sister Lucy that
+executed that last passage," shuddered the countess. "Come, my dears let
+us finish dressing. It will soon be morning and then surely some way
+will be provided for us to go back to Palm Beach."
+
+"Shall we tell her?" whispered Ruth to Bab.
+
+"We'd better," nodded Bab. "Then she will be constantly on her guard."
+
+"Listen, everyone," commanded Ruth. "We are going to tell you something
+but you mustn't feel frightened. We think the countess should know it at
+once. You tell them about it, Bab."
+
+Bab obediently began a recital of what had transpired after she and Ruth
+had been so suddenly wakened. The others listened in consternation to
+her story. The countess who turned very pale while Bab was speaking,
+looked appealingly at Madame de Villiers. The stern old woman was
+apparently much agitated. "He shall not harm the Countess Sophia," she
+muttered, forgetful of those about her. "I will protect her even from
+him."
+
+"Aunt Sallie, shall I call Father?" asked Ruth a few moments later. The
+seven women were seated about the room in silent dejection.
+
+"No, Ruth," responded her aunt. "We will not waken him. A man that can
+sleep through a concert such as we were favored with deserves to be left
+in peace. It is after four o'clock now. I think we'll let him sleep
+until six, at least. Then after breakfast, perhaps, he will be able to
+devise some means by which we may return to the hotel."
+
+It was a very tired and sleepy band of picnickers that gathered around
+the Thorne breakfast table that morning, and breakfast was not over when
+the honk of an automobile horn was heard and a large touring car rolled
+up the avenue.
+
+"Hurrah!" shouted Ruth. "It's Mr. Warren. Oh, but I'm glad to see him."
+
+It was indeed Mr. Warren, who, when the party did not return that night,
+had taken the fastest launch he could find and made for the picnic
+ground. He had discovered the note, as Mr. Stuart had hoped, had
+returned to the hotel where the history of Thorne house and its mistress
+was not unknown and had come for them himself after a few hours sleep.
+
+"I should be happy and honored if you would all come again," said Miss
+Thorne as she waved adieu to her guests from the front piazza, while Jim
+and Chloe bobbed and bowed and chuckled over the generous present they
+had each received from Mr. Stuart.
+
+As the automobile rolled down the avenue they caught a last glimpse of
+the mistress of Thorne House still waving her handkerchief, and in every
+heart was a feeling of tender sympathy for the little old woman whose
+present was so irrevocably linked to the past.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII
+
+THE WATER FÊTE
+
+
+  "Roll along, roll along,
+    O'er the waters so blue,
+  We're afloat, we're afloat
+    In our birch bark canoe,"
+
+sang Grace's high sweet voice as their boat bobbed gayly up and down
+with the little rippling waves of the lake.
+
+"That is a pretty song, my dear child," exclaimed Miss Sallie Stuart,
+from a cushioned seat in the stern of the boat, "but you should
+substitute 'naphtha launch' for canoe. Nothing would induce me to ride
+in one."
+
+"The Count de Sonde is going to be at the fête in a canoe," observed
+Maud Warren in the tone of one imparting a piece of valuable
+information. "He asked me to go with him, but Papa was unreasonable, as
+usual."
+
+"In a canoe with that little foreigner!" cried Miss Sallie in amazement.
+"Does he know how to paddle?"
+
+"The count is an expert boatman," replied Maud stiffly. She had mixed
+sensations of fear and dislike for Miss Sallie, although fear was the
+stronger sentiment of the two.
+
+"I imagine his swimming and his canoeing are about alike," said Ruth
+aside to Barbara; "just paddling in shallow water."
+
+The "Automobile Girls" were busily engaged in decorating their launch
+for the Venetian Fête, which was to take place that evening. The lake
+dotted with numbers of boats looked like an immense flower bed. Hundreds
+of craft of every land were anchored near the shore, each filled with
+gay parties of young people who were stringing up rows of Japanese
+lanterns, bunting and flags.
+
+"There's not a boat on the lake that can compare with ours," cried
+Mollie proudly, as she tacked the end of a festoon of small banners to
+the awning-pole, while Barbara gave a finishing touch by crossing the
+silk flags of the "Automobile Girls" on the bow.
+
+"If only the lanterns don't catch fire this evening," said Miss Sallie.
+
+"What a pessimist you are, Auntie, dearest!" exclaimed Ruth. "We can
+easily pitch them in the water if they do, and still be very handsome
+with our banners and things."
+
+"Here comes the count," cried Maud, who had ignored the conversation of
+the others and was busily scanning the multitudes of boats in search of
+her admirer.
+
+Her friends politely controlled a desire to laugh when they saw the
+count presently emerge from the boats along the shore in a small canoe
+that was decorated with one lantern hung from a bamboo stick in the bow,
+while the French flag waved triumphantly from the stern. The count, in
+white flannels, was working laboriously with the paddle. His little
+mustache twitched in an agony of exertion and occasionally he paused to
+wipe the perspiration from his brow.
+
+"The count is quite an athlete, isn't he, Maud?" asked Mollie wickedly.
+"I should think he might lead the parade to-night."
+
+But Maud was not listening. Her whole attention was concentrated on the
+canoe, which was making straight for the launch.
+
+"Here I am, Count," she cried, waving her handkerchief to the young
+Frenchman, who, as soon as he espied the boat full of girls, had begun
+to paddle with a grand flourish, at the same time casting melting
+glances in the direction of Maud. But he had not calculated on the
+distance between the canoe and the launch, and a final, fancy stroke
+with the paddle, sent the frail little boat scurrying over the water.
+
+It collided with the larger boat, and in an instant turned turtle,
+dragging the flag of the French ignominiously into the depths while the
+discomfited son of France, clung to the side of his boat, and wildly
+called for help.
+
+At first the girls were speechless with laughter and the last of the De
+Sondes received neither sympathy nor aid. Even Maud joined in the
+merriment, while the enraged nobleman sputtered angrily in French and
+denounced America and everything in it as fit only for pigs.
+
+Presently Barbara wiped the tears from her eyes and threw out a life
+preserver to the unfortunate man.
+
+"There, Count," she called, "you can't sink as long as you hold on to
+that. We'll see if we can't right your boat, and you can paddle back to
+shore."
+
+"I'm sorry we can't offer you the hospitality of our boat," said Miss
+Sallie, "but we are anchored, you see, and the engineer is ashore.
+Besides, I am afraid your wet clothing would spoil our decorations."
+
+The count, however, was too enraged to remember any English. He shook
+his fist at the upturned canoe and poured forth a perfect torrent of
+maledictions against it.
+
+Just then a passing launch paused and gave the needed assistance, taking
+the count on board and towing the canoe to shore. As the little boat was
+righted an envelope that had evidently fallen from the count's pocket,
+floated past them in the current.
+
+"You dropped something," called Barbara, but the launch had already
+started for shore and the count did not hear her. Using the crook of her
+parasol Ruth tried to fish it out. As she drew it to the side of the
+boat it sank out of sight but not before she had read the inscription on
+it, written in an angular foreign-looking handwriting: "To Madame La
+Comtesse Sophia von Stolberg."
+
+Barbara, too, saw it, and so did Mollie, whose face flushed crimson with
+the memory of what her beloved countess had said to her that night on
+the balcony of Thorne House. At that very moment, pinned inside of
+Mollie's white silk blouse, was the dangerous paper which "concerned the
+count very intimately."
+
+Was it about that mysterious document that he was now writing to the
+countess?
+
+For the first time Mollie felt the shadow of a doubt cross her mind. It
+was only a tiny speck of a doubt, but it left its impression, try as she
+would to shake it off.
+
+Ruth and Barbara exchanged glances, but said nothing. They had seen
+enough to know that some sort of correspondence was being secretly
+carried on between the Countess von Stolberg and the Count de Sonde. If
+Maud were to marry the count she would deeply regret it, the Countess
+Sophia had said.
+
+Strangely enough, this speech came back to each of the three girls at
+the same moment.
+
+Ruth felt that perhaps they had rushed too quickly into an intimacy with
+the countess. For the first time Mollie was inclined to be a little
+suspicious. While Barbara who had even more evidence against the
+Countess Sophia tried vainly to fit together the pieces of this most
+mysterious puzzle.
+
+                  *       *       *       *       *
+
+"Well, fair and beautiful ladies, are you quite ready for a sail on the
+Grand Canal? Have you your wraps and bonnets? Is Grace's guitar on
+hand?" called Mr. Stuart that evening, after dinner, rapping on three
+doors one after the other.
+
+"In a minute!" called a chorus of voices from the three rooms, while Mr.
+Stuart put on a look of resigned patience and waited for the girls to
+appear. At length, tired of waiting, he strolled toward the elevator
+when Marian De Lancey Smythe hurried along the corridor.
+
+She averted her face when she saw Mr. Stuart, for Marian had sedulously
+kept out of sight for a number of days, and they had wondered not a
+little at it.
+
+"Why, Miss Marian," called the kind-hearted man, who had always felt an
+interest in the strange young girl, "aren't you going to see the water
+fête to-night?"
+
+"I'm afraid not, Mr. Stuart," she replied, her lips trembling a little,
+partly from loneliness and partly because people were not often kind to
+her. "Mama is going with Mr. Duval and some friends, but I didn't care
+to go with them."
+
+"Very well, Miss Marian; you must go with us, then. Get your wraps and
+meet us on the piazza."
+
+And ten minutes later, her eyes alight with pleasure, Marian made one of
+the party of girls who presently found themselves floating in the long
+procession of illuminated boats on the lake.
+
+All the hotels had emptied themselves upon the lake front, and hundreds
+of boats had already filled and were forming in line for the water. The
+moon would not be up until very late, but the place was aglow with
+Japanese lanterns, which decorated the launches and rowboats and hung in
+festoons along the boat landings.
+
+The girls had hardly got their lanterns lit when there was a burst of
+music, and the procession began to wind its sinuous way about the lake.
+
+"The fireworks will begin in a moment, girls," said Mr. Warren, "and
+then you will be a part of a wonderful spectacle to those on shore."
+
+Certainly the Stuart boat was one of the most picturesque of all the
+craft that floated in the parade. The glow of the lanterns made a soft
+illumination about the four young girls, each of whom wore a long
+broadcloth cape, a final gift from Mr. Stuart before leaving Chicago.
+Barbara's was her favorite dark red, Ruth's was pink, Mollie's her own
+particular blue and Grace's a delicate lavender.
+
+"Daughter," continued Mr. Warren, turning to Maud who in an elaborate
+white silk evening wrap, was leaning languidly back in her seat, "aren't
+you feeling well to-night?"
+
+"Oh, perfectly well, Papa," replied Maud, resting her chin on her hand
+and looking out across the fleet of boats moving slowly along the shore.
+"But spectacles of this sort are so childish and tiresome, I think. They
+do bore me--oh, there's the count," she cried, interrupting herself.
+
+Her father looked so grieved and annoyed that Mr. Stuart's heart was
+filled with compassion for his old friend.
+
+"See what a good time the other girls are having," went on Mr. Warren,
+in a pleading tone. "Look how jolly they are in their bright capes. I
+wish you would get one, daughter. These grown-up things make you look so
+much older than you really are."
+
+He pressed the girl's hand but she drew away with a petulant expression.
+
+"Please don't, Papa. You know how I detest public demonstrations."
+
+"Oh-h-h!" cried the others.
+
+A sky rocket had exploded and thousands of stars hung for an instant
+suspended in mid-air. Then an entire artillery of Roman candles seemed
+to be let loose at once. There was a blare of trumpets, a grand burst of
+music and the gorgeous water pageant was outlined against the sky like
+an illuminated picture.
+
+Other boats began dropping out of line after the music had stopped, and
+Mr. Stuart ordered the engineer to run farther out into the lake where
+the illumination could be seen to better advantage. Grace struck a chord
+on her guitar and began to sing: "'Tis night on Venice waters," when
+Marian, to the surprise of the others, suddenly joined in with a sweet
+contralto voice.
+
+"Why, Marian, I never dreamed you could sing like that," exclaimed Ruth,
+when the song was done.
+
+Marian blushed, but said nothing. She had hardly spoken during the whole
+evening.
+
+The air was full of music that night and the sound of laughter and
+singing floated across the lake from scores of other boats. The strains
+of the "Marseillaise" came to them from a launch that Maud had been
+watching for some time.
+
+"I know whose voice that is," said Barbara. "It's Monsieur Duval's."
+
+"It is, I think," replied Ruth, "although the boat is too far away for
+us to see him plainly."
+
+Marian drew a scarf over her head and crouched down in her seat.
+
+"Could she be afraid of her own mother?" wondered Barbara, for Mrs. De
+Lancey Smythe was easily recognized as one of the occupants of the boat.
+The count, who was playing on a tinkling little mandolin, sat beside
+her. As the boat drew nearer they noticed another figure wrapped in a
+long blue broadcloth cape. It was that of a woman, sitting with her back
+to them. A scarf concealed her head and face.
+
+"Barbara," whispered Ruth, "are we dreaming or is it the Countess
+Sophia?"
+
+Barbara strained her eyes to distinguish the figure. Mollie and Grace
+also had seen the familiar wrap and poor little Mollie's face burned
+with something very like mortification.
+
+The boat skimmed lightly over the water and in a moment only the lantern
+at its bow could be seen swinging in the blackness.
+
+"It looks like the countess," whispered Barbara briefly in reply.
+"Marian," she said, turning to the other girl who had closed her eyes as
+though she wished to shut out the sight of the other boat, "we just saw
+your mother go past with Monsieur Duval and the count, and we
+thought--we were almost certain we recognized the other person in the
+boat. Did you notice who it was?"
+
+Marian opened her eyes and looked straight into Barbara's.
+
+"I am sorry, Barbara," she said sadly, "but I can't answer that question
+to-night."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX
+
+RED DOMINOS
+
+
+The water fête a thing of the past, the Warrens' domino ball became the
+excitement of the hour.
+
+The "Automobile Girls" were talking over their costumes when there came
+a rap on their door.
+
+Grace responded, to find the corridor empty; but at her feet lay a
+sealed envelope addressed to Barbara, who hastily tore it open and read
+aloud the enclosed note.
+
+    "Maud and the Count have planned to elope during the domino
+    ball. At midnight Maud and her chaperon will steal out of the
+    side entrance of the hotel. The chaperon will wear a black
+    domino, but will remain in her room until ten minutes before
+    midnight, when she will go to the veranda, meet Maud, and the
+    two will go to the east entrance of the hotel grounds, where
+    they will be met by the count with an automobile. They will go
+    to the village and be married there. Arrangements have been made
+    and the license secured. Maud will wear a red silk domino and a
+    black mask. Just over her heart will be a small black silk heart
+    the size of the one enclosed. I promised to warn you should
+    anything serious arise, and have done so at great personal risk.
+    Stop the elopement if you can without outside aid. Some day I
+    will explain why.
+
+                                                             "M. S."
+
+"'M. S.' Marian Smythe. She is a good scout, girls," said Ruth. "But I
+didn't think that Maud would go so far as this."
+
+"This pattern for the heart--I imagine that Marian is suggesting that we
+all wear dominos exactly like Maud's. But why?" put in Barbara.
+
+"We'll take that step in the dark, for Father is waiting now to
+telegraph for the silk to make our dominos, and discuss details later."
+
+"I did want a pink domino," sighed Mollie. "But you're right, Ruth; and
+the count will be a dizzy man before we're through with him!"
+
+"Won't the count be suspicious on seeing five Mauds and change his
+plans?" asked Grace.
+
+"He'll not see five Mauds. There will be a big crowd at the ball, and
+four of the Mauds will carefully keep out of one another's way,"
+explained Ruth.
+
+It was after the girls had gone to bed that night that the full answer
+came to Ruth, so she aroused Barbara to tell her of the plan.
+
+"I have it, Bab! We'll switch couples on the count! I'm sorry, but
+you'll have to take the risk, for you're the only one tall enough to
+represent Maud. I'm sure that Mrs. De Lancey Smythe is to be the
+chaperon on the occasion, and if we can persuade Aunt Sallie--and I
+think we can--to take her place, our Count de Sonde will find himself
+with the wrong pair on his hands--and, oh, Bab, shan't we have fun
+seeing the count rage!"
+
+It was a brief statement of the plan, but Barbara understood.
+
+"Maud will not be easy to fool, and what if the count gets the right
+pair?"
+
+"Just before the hour set, one of us will get a note to Mrs. Smythe
+changing the place of meeting. There--at the new place--Maud and her
+chaperon will wait in vain for her count, who will be eloping with the
+wrong couple."
+
+"It leaves many loopholes for failure, but I can think of no better way;
+so I'm for it if your Aunt Sallie consents."
+
+"Monsieur Duval is the unknown X of the problem," stated Ruth slowly,
+"but that's one of the many chances we'll have to take."
+
+At last it was the night of the ball.
+
+"How lovely!"
+
+One of the five red dominos paused on the threshold of the ball room,
+almost breathless with admiration. Glowing lights, exotic decorations,
+swaying, brilliantly clad figures moving to perfect dance music, made
+indeed an entrancing scene.
+
+"Yes, lovely, but lovelier outside. Shall we go into the garden?"
+whispered a voice in the ear of the little red domino.
+
+"Not yet," she responded, and sped away among the dancers.
+
+"Mademoiselle," whispered a voice that made the blood of a second red
+domino tingle, "is it all arranged?"
+
+"Yes," she answered under her breath.
+
+"You won't fail us?" whispered the other.
+
+"No," she replied quietly, but there was a threat in his tone that boded
+evil. Then this red domino slipped away in the crowd.
+
+Meanwhile, a third red domino was peering from behind a screen of palms
+when she felt her arm seized and, turning, encountered the angry little
+mask that had been pursuing red dominos until his brain reeled.
+
+"Mademoiselle," he hissed, "you are cruel! Why do you avoid me so?"
+
+"Ah, Count, can't you wait so short a time?" and the third red domino
+was lost in the crowd.
+
+The fourth red domino had been amusing herself like a wilful butterfly
+on a summer's day. But it was getting late, and she paused at length to
+look about her. As she passed a grotto in the garden, formed by palms
+and orange trees, she heard the low chatter of voices speaking French. A
+vine-covered trellis screened her from view. One of the voices she
+recognized as Monsieur Duval's. She heard him say:
+
+"In three quarters of an hour we shall start. The maid tells me the
+officer is asleep. She saw to that. The young one is on the veranda with
+the older one, and they never retire until after midnight. We must have
+that paper to-night, even though we use violence." The fourth red domino
+did not wait for more.
+
+"I must find Father," she told herself. "How shall I ever get him in
+time? They're talking of the countess, and Monsieur Duval intends to go
+to the villa!"
+
+But what of the fifth red domino, the hostess of the great ball?
+
+Time had hung rather heavily on her hands. No one recognized her, and,
+not being a graceful dancer, she was somewhat neglected.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XX
+
+CONCLUSION
+
+
+At about half-past eleven Barbara concluded that she had better deliver
+the letter to Mrs. De Lancey Smythe. Summoning a bellboy, she went to
+the woman's room. On the way she showed the boy a dollar bill.
+
+"This will be yours," she said, "if you do exactly as I tell you. If,
+when you deliver this note, the recipient should ask who gave it to you,
+say 'some one in a domino,' then come away quickly. Do you understand?"
+
+"Yes, ma'am," replied the boy, his eyes on the dollar bill.
+
+In a few minutes the room was reached. Mrs. De Lancey Smythe, in a black
+silk domino and mask, responded to the knock on the door.
+
+"Now," whispered Barbara, who kept out of sight, and the boy delivered
+the note which read:
+
+"Meet me at the Casino gate. Same time. Have found it necessary to
+change meeting place."
+
+"Who gave you this, boy?"
+
+"Some one in a domino," he replied, turning away.
+
+"Wait! What did the person say?"
+
+"Just 'take this note to room 601 and give it to the lady there.'"
+
+"It's from the count," and, satisfied, she reentered the room.
+
+Meanwhile, Ruth, forgetting Maud Warren, searched frantically for her
+father. In and out of corridors, smoking and supper rooms, ball room,
+verandas, and garden she hurried. The recollection of Maud returned,
+however, when over the hum of talk and laughter the strains of the
+"Marseillaise" floated out.
+
+"In honor of De Sonde," thought Ruth contemptuously.
+
+Some one began to sing, and the place soon rang with the notes of the
+stirring French song. People began throwing confetti, and the air was
+flecked with the bright-colored stuff. It was midnight.
+
+No one noticed two red dominos, each accompanied by one in black, steal
+from different doors of the hotel and disappear in the dark.
+
+Ruth finally found her father standing in a doorway, talking to a little
+red domino.
+
+"Father! I overheard Mr. Duval and some accomplices planning to rob the
+countess of a valuable paper to-night! Do send help at once!"
+
+"Paper! Oh, Mr. Stuart, it must be the one the countess entrusted to
+me," and Mollie pulled from her bosom a chamois bag.
+
+Mr. Stuart took a paper from the bag and glanced through it. Only a few
+minutes later he and four officers were speeding toward the villa of the
+countess.
+
+Meanwhile, Miss Stuart and Barbara had been assisted into an automobile
+waiting at the east entrance. As they neared the station Barbara became
+nervous. Was the chauffeur a confederate of the plotters or had he been
+hired to make the run knowing nothing of the details?
+
+Before the car had come to a full stop the count leaped out and turned
+to help his companions alight. Barbara leaned forward and said sharply
+to the chauffeur:
+
+"Return at once to the hotel without the gentleman. Ask no questions.
+You will be answerable to Mr. Stuart for any treachery."
+
+The car disappeared in the darkness, leaving the count dancing and
+gesticulating in anger.
+
+When Mr. Stuart and the officers entered the drawing room of the
+countess's villa they saw the old man who had before menaced the two
+women standing threateningly in front of them. Behind him was another
+man, evidently ready to respond to any command of the old man.
+
+"The paper you seek is not here, Monsieur," said the countess proudly.
+
+"I say it is here! Give it to me at once!"
+
+"Officers, this is your man! Take him!" shouted Mr. Stuart.
+
+Two of the officers seized and handcuffed the second man, but the old
+man with surprising agility leaped from the room, and the officers could
+find not the slightest trace of him.
+
+"Ah, Mr. Stuart," said the countess, "I do not know what chance brought
+you to my rescue, but help was greatly needed and I am grateful."
+
+"Ruth overheard a talk this evening and sent us here to see if we could
+serve you. The plot was instigated by Monsieur Duval."
+
+"That old man was Monsieur Duval himself. He is a very dangerous enemy
+to have."
+
+"That I already know, Countess. After we learned of your danger, Mollie
+gave me the paper you had put in her care. It was hardly prudent to give
+such a document to a young girl. I think we are entitled to an
+explanation."
+
+"Ah, please not to-night, Monsieur! But may I ask you to bring Miss
+Stuart and the girls here to-morrow afternoon? Then I shall be glad to
+tell you my story."
+
+"Very well," replied Mr. Stuart stiffly, displeased at the countess'
+lack of frankness.
+
+On Mr. Stuart's return to the hotel the girls overwhelmed him with
+questions and called eagerly for a glimpse of the mysterious paper.
+
+Mr. Stuart unfolded the document. It was signed by the Prefect of Police
+of Paris and stamped with the official seal. Two photographs were pasted
+to the sheet and under each was a description of the man.
+
+"The count and Monsieur Duval!" gasped Ruth.
+
+From the paper the girls learned that Duval was a French criminal who
+had served several terms in prison, but who was usually clever enough to
+escape detection. His real name was Jacques Dupin. The "count," whose
+name was Latour, was merely a tool of Dupin's.
+
+"This says," cried Ruth excitedly, scanning the paper, "that Dupin can
+assume any disguise he wishes. He is a linguist and a trained actor and
+is known as Gentilhomme Jacques, or Gentleman Jack. He plays only for
+big stakes."
+
+"How did the countess become involved in this, Mr. Stuart?" asked
+Barbara, and at the question Mollie's pretty face clouded.
+
+"The countess has asked us to the villa to-morrow afternoon to offer an
+explanation," replied Mr. Stuart shortly.
+
+At noon the next day Ruth rushed up to her companions with exciting
+news.
+
+"Girls, the count, or Latour, was arrested this morning when about to
+board a train and has confessed that he had plotted to marry Maud,
+obtain control of her fortune, and then desert her! Duval was the brains
+of the plot. Mrs. Smythe was helping them, and, listen girls, she's been
+arrested as a professional swindler!"
+
+"Oh, poor Marian!" exclaimed Mollie sympathetically, to be echoed by the
+others. But just at that moment Marian came up to them, her face
+radiant.
+
+"Oh, girls, such news! Mrs. Smythe accused me last night of spoiling her
+plans, and in her anger she let out that she's not my mother! My mother,
+who died when I was a baby, was her neighbor. Some money was left me and
+Mrs. Smythe was made my guardian. She used the money, of course, and
+kept the truth from me. My name is Marian Dale. I'm poor, but I'm free
+for the first time in my life, and I'll work!"
+
+Mr. Stuart had come up and heard the last part of the tale; so he now
+broke in:
+
+"You are not friendless, my girl. You must stay here as my guest with my
+other girls for a while, then we'll discuss your future."
+
+"You are kind, Mr. Stuart. But I can't be a burden. I must find work at
+once. But, oh, I'm grateful to you!" and her eyes were misty.
+
+"I must turn my other girls on you, I see."
+
+Maud Warren was a changed girl when she realized the danger her
+headstrong conduct had placed her in. Her father, feeling that a real
+reformation had begun, asked Marian Dale to come to them as Maud's
+companion and encourage her in a saner view of life. This appealed to
+Maud, and the two girls became close friends, much to the happiness of
+both.
+
+That afternoon when the "Automobile Girls" arrived at the countess's
+villa they were introduced to the Baron von Lichtenberg, who, the
+countess told them, bore a message from her father.
+
+To the girls' amazement and fluttered delight, the countess was in
+reality the Princess Sophia Adele von Nichtenstern. The princess wished
+to marry the Count de Sonde; and when her father insisted that she marry
+instead a noble of advanced years for reasons of state, she fled to
+America under the protection of her cousin and second mother, the
+Baroness von Lichtenberg, whom the girls knew as Madame de Villiers.
+
+"But since then, my friends, my father has met the Count de Sonde and he
+has also learned how greatly the man for whom he intended me has
+persecuted me, so he has given his consent to my marriage with the
+count. You can imagine my consternation when I met the false Count de
+Sonde and learned that he was trying to marry your friend Maud. I then
+sent to Paris and learned the identity of these two men. I wish to tell
+you, too, that both Monsieur Duval and my other persecutors have been
+using my maid, and that on several occasions she has taken my clothes
+and impersonated me.
+
+"Mr. Stuart, I did wrong to involve the pretty Mollie in my affairs; but
+my father had not then forgiven me and I feared to have him learn at
+that time of my whereabouts. Will you forgive me?"
+
+The princess was to start for home almost immediately under the
+protection of the Baron and Baroness von Lichtenberg, but before leaving
+Florida she exacted a promise from each of the "Automobile Girls" and
+from Maud Warren as well that they would visit her when she should
+become the wife of the Count de Sonde.
+
+After the princess had left Palm Beach a package was handed to Miss
+Stuart. In it was a gift for each of the Automobile Girls. Mollie
+received a handsome bracelet beautifully ornamented and set with jewels.
+Inside was inscribed "S von N.--F. de S."
+
+"Oh," cried Mollie, "the count gave her this! How she must have loved
+it, and she gave it to me!"
+
+Barbara's gift was a gold filigree star of exquisite workmanship; Ruth's
+a splendid oriental scarf embroidered in gold and silver threads, and
+Grace's a beautiful gold chain.
+
+The "Automobile Girls" spent two more gay and happy weeks at Palm Beach,
+then turned their faces northward once more, each going to her own home.
+
+It was not until the next winter that they were together again, and what
+befell them then is told in the sixth and last volume of "The Automobile
+Girls Series" under the title, "The Automobile Girls at Washington; Or,
+Checkmating the Plots of Foreign Spies."
+
+THE END
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Automobile Girls at Palm Beach, by 
+Laura Dent Crane
+
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+<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd">
+<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
+<head>
+  <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"/>
+  <meta name="generator" content="ppgen"/>
+  <meta name="author" content="Laura Dent Crane"/>
+  <meta name="date" content="1913"/>
+  <meta name="title" content="The Automobile Girls at Palm Beach"/>
+  <title>The Automobile Girls at Palm Beach, by Laura Dent Crane</title>
+  <style type="text/css">
+      body         { margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; margin-top: 10%; margin-bottom: 10%;
+                     text-align: justify; }
+      p            { margin-top:.7071em; margin-bottom:.7071em; text-align:justify; }
+      .pagenum     { display:inline; font-size:x-small; text-align:right; text-indent:0;
+                     position:absolute; right:2%; padding:1px 3px; font-style:normal;
+                     font-variant:normal; font-weight:normal; text-decoration:none;
+                     background-color:inherit; border:1px solid #eee; }
+      .pncolor     { color:silver; }
+      .sc          { font-variant:small-caps; }
+      div.figure   { display:block; margin:0 auto; text-align:center; }
+      p.caption    { text-align:center; }
+      div.chapter  { margin-top:3em; margin-bottom:1em; }
+      p.cln0       { text-align:center; display: block; font-size:1.3em; }
+      p.cln1       { text-align:center; display: block; margin-top:0.5em; font-size:1.2em; }
+  </style>
+  </head>
+<body>
+
+
+<pre>
+
+Project Gutenberg's The Automobile Girls at Palm Beach, by Laura Dent Crane
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: The Automobile Girls at Palm Beach
+       Proving Their Mettle Under Southern Skies
+
+Author: Laura Dent Crane
+
+Release Date: November 24, 2011 [EBook #38123]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: UTF-8
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE AUTOMOBILE GIRLS AT PALM BEACH ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Roger Frank and the Online Distributed
+Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net
+
+
+
+
+
+
+</pre>
+
+<div class="figure">
+<img src="images/illus-fpc.jpg" alt="image"/>
+<p class="caption">The Girls Sat On the Broad Piazza.</p>
+</div>
+
+<p style="margin-top:4em;">&#160;</p>
+
+<p style="text-align:center;font-size: 1.6em;">THE AUTOMOBILE GIRLS AT PALM BEACH</p>
+
+<p style="text-align:center;">OR</p>
+
+<p style="text-align:center;font-size: 1.3em;">PROVING THEIR METTLE UNDER SOUTHERN SKIES</p>
+
+<p style="text-align:center;">By</p>
+
+<p style="text-align:center;">LAURA DENT CRANE</p>
+
+<p style="text-align:center;font-size: 0.8em;margin-bottom: 0.0em;">  Author of The Automobile Girls at Newport, The Automobile</p>
+<p style="text-align:center;font-size: 0.8em;margin-top: 0.0em;margin-bottom: 0.0em;">  Girls in the Berkshires, The Automobile Girls Along the</p>
+<p style="text-align:center;font-size: 0.8em;margin-top: 0.0em;">  Hudson, The Automobile Girls at Chicago, etc.</p>
+
+<p style="text-align:center;">Illustrated</p>
+
+<p style="text-align:center;margin-bottom: 0.0em;">PHILADELPHIA</p>
+
+<p style="text-align:center;margin-top: 0.0em;">HENRY ALTEMUS COMPANY</p>
+
+<p style="margin-top:4em;">&#160;</p>
+
+<p style="text-align:center;margin-bottom: 0.0em;"><span class='sc'>Copyright, 1913, by</span></p>
+
+<p style="text-align:center;margin-top: 0.0em;"><span class='sc'>Howard E. Altemius</span></p>
+
+<p style="text-align:center;font-size: 0.8em;">PRINTED IN U. S. A.</p>
+
+<p style='font-size:larger; text-align:center; margin-top:3em;'>Contents</p>
+<a id='toc'></a>
+<table style="margin:1em auto" summary="toc">
+<tr><td style="padding-right:1em" align="right">I.</td><td align="left"><a href="#chI">The Land of Dreams</a></td><td style="padding-left:3em" align="right">7</td></tr>
+<tr><td style="padding-right:1em" align="right">II.</td><td align="left"><a href="#chII">A West Indian Squall</a></td><td style="padding-left:3em" align="right">21</td></tr>
+<tr><td style="padding-right:1em" align="right">III.</td><td align="left"><a href="#chIII">The Fair Unknown</a></td><td style="padding-left:3em" align="right">32</td></tr>
+<tr><td style="padding-right:1em" align="right">IV.</td><td align="left"><a href="#chIV">The Compact</a></td><td style="padding-left:3em" align="right">43</td></tr>
+<tr><td style="padding-right:1em" align="right">V.</td><td align="left"><a href="#chV">The Daughter of Mrs. De Lancey Smythe</a></td><td style="padding-left:3em" align="right">51</td></tr>
+<tr><td style="padding-right:1em" align="right">VI.</td><td align="left"><a href="#chVI">The Countess Sophia</a></td><td style="padding-left:3em" align="right">64</td></tr>
+<tr><td style="padding-right:1em" align="right">VII.</td><td align="left"><a href="#chVII">Tea in the Cocoanut Grove</a></td><td style="padding-left:3em" align="right">75</td></tr>
+<tr><td style="padding-right:1em" align="right">VIII.</td><td align="left"><a href="#chVIII">The Warning</a></td><td style="padding-left:3em" align="right">87</td></tr>
+<tr><td style="padding-right:1em" align="right">IX.</td><td align="left"><a href="#chIX">A Case of Mistaken Identity</a></td><td style="padding-left:3em" align="right">95</td></tr>
+<tr><td style="padding-right:1em" align="right">X.</td><td align="left"><a href="#chX">The Secret Signals</a></td><td style="padding-left:3em" align="right">105</td></tr>
+<tr><td style="padding-right:1em" align="right">XI.</td><td align="left"><a href="#chXI">Wheels Within Wheels</a></td><td style="padding-left:3em" align="right">113</td></tr>
+<tr><td style="padding-right:1em" align="right">XII.</td><td align="left"><a href="#chXII">Maud Refuses to Be Rescued</a></td><td style="padding-left:3em" align="right">123</td></tr>
+<tr><td style="padding-right:1em" align="right">XIII.</td><td align="left"><a href="#chXIII">A Surprise Party</a></td><td style="padding-left:3em" align="right">132</td></tr>
+<tr><td style="padding-right:1em" align="right">XIV.</td><td align="left"><a href="#chXIV">The Plot Thickens</a></td><td style="padding-left:3em" align="right">147</td></tr>
+<tr><td style="padding-right:1em" align="right">XV.</td><td align="left"><a href="#chXV">Caught Napping</a></td><td style="padding-left:3em" align="right">154</td></tr>
+<tr><td style="padding-right:1em" align="right">XVI.</td><td align="left"><a href="#chXVI">Welcome and Unwelcome Guests</a></td><td style="padding-left:3em" align="right">166</td></tr>
+<tr><td style="padding-right:1em" align="right">XVII.</td><td align="left"><a href="#chXVII">The Midnight Intruder</a></td><td style="padding-left:3em" align="right">179</td></tr>
+<tr><td style="padding-right:1em" align="right">XVIII.</td><td align="left"><a href="#chXVIII">The Water Fête</a></td><td style="padding-left:3em" align="right">189</td></tr>
+<tr><td style="padding-right:1em" align="right">XIX.</td><td align="left"><a href="#chXIX">Red Dominos</a></td><td style="padding-left:3em" align="right">200</td></tr>
+<tr><td style="padding-right:1em" align="right">XX.</td><td align="left"><a href="#chXX">Conclusion</a></td><td style="padding-left:3em" align="right">204</td></tr>
+</table>
+
+<p style="margin-top:4em;">&#160;</p>
+
+<p style="text-align:center;font-size: 1.5em;margin-top: 1.0em;margin-bottom: 1.0em;">The Automobile Girls at Palm Beach</p>
+<div class='chapter'>
+<span class="pagenum pncolor"><a id="page_7"></a>7</span>
+<a id='chI'></a>
+<p class='cln0'>CHAPTER I</p>
+<p class='cln1'>THE LAND OF DREAMS</p>
+</div>
+
+
+<p>“I don’t believe anything could be more
+lovely than this,� exclaimed Mollie
+Thurston, leaning back in a wicker chair
+on the piazza of one of the largest hotels at
+Palm Beach.</p>
+
+<p>“Right you are!� replied her friend, Ruth
+Stuart, as she gazed across the still blue waters
+of Lake Worth dotted with pleasure boats. “I
+can’t decide whether I should like to ride in
+the automobile, or sail, or just sit in the cocoanut
+grove and listen to the music. Life seems
+so easy under a blue sky like this, and there
+are so many things to do that it is hard to make
+a choice.�</p>
+
+<p>“What do people usually do at this hour?�
+Grace Carter asked. “A woman I talked with
+on the train told me there was a programme of
+amusements for every hour at Palm Beach.�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_8'></a>8</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>“Well, my dear, you have only to gaze about
+you and see for yourself. It is now high noon,�
+answered Ruth, consulting her watch.</p>
+
+<p>Grace glanced quickly about her. All along
+the broad piazza, and under awnings on the
+lawn, a gay company of men, women and young
+people were sipping delicious iced fruit drinks
+in tall, thin glasses.</p>
+
+<p>“It is undoubtedly the witching hour for pineapple
+lemonades,� said Ruth. “And we must
+be in the fashion immediately. Papa,� she
+called to her father, who was immersed in the
+pages of a New York newspaper several days
+old, “you are not doing your duty by us. We
+are getting awfully thirsty.�</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Stuart, clad in white, and looking the
+picture of comfort, smiled lazily over his paper
+at his daughter. “Order what you like, my
+dear. Am I not always at the command of the
+‘Automobile Girls’? What do you wish, little
+lady?� he asked, turning to Barbara Thurston,
+who had been lost in a day-dream and had heard
+nothing of the conversation.</p>
+
+<p>“I haven’t any wish,� responded Barbara.
+“I am too happy to be troubled with wishes.�</p>
+
+<p>“Then suppose I wish for you, Bab?� suggested
+Ruth. “Go back to your own sweet
+dreams. I’ll wake you when the wish comes
+true.�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_9'></a>9</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>Presently the four girls were sipping their
+fruit lemonades like the rest of the world at
+Palm Beach. On the breeze the sound of music
+was wafted to them from a morning concert in
+the distance.</p>
+
+<p>“Where is Aunt Sallie?� Ruth suddenly
+asked, again interrupting her father’s reading.
+“This place has bewitched me so that I have
+forgotten even my beloved aunt. This is the
+land of dreams, I do believe. We are all spirits
+from some happy world.�</p>
+
+<p>“Here comes your spirit aunt,� returned Mr.
+Stuart, smiling. “She has evidently been
+spirited away by some other friendly spirits.�</p>
+
+<p>The girls laughed as they saw the substantial
+figure of Miss Sallie Stuart strolling down
+the piazza. She was walking between two
+other persons, one a tall, middle-aged man with
+dark hair slightly tinged with gray, the other
+a young woman. They were all three talking
+animatedly.</p>
+
+<p>“Girls, look!� exclaimed Ruth, in suppressed
+excitement. “Aunt Sallie is with that Maud
+Warren. You remember we met her at Lenox,
+Bab, and she tried to ride you down in the
+famous race. Delightful creature—to keep
+away from.� Ruth gave a contemptuous sniff,
+then added. “That nice looking man must be
+her father.�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_10'></a>10</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>“She looks as haughty as ever, and then some
+more,� said Mollie aggressively.</p>
+
+<p>The girls giggled softly, then straightened
+their faces for the trio was almost upon them,
+and it was not safe to indulge in further conversation.</p>
+
+<p>After seeing that his charges were supplied
+with lemonade, Mr. Stuart had returned to his
+paper.</p>
+
+<p>“Robert,� broke in Miss Sallie’s dignified
+voice, “this is Mr. Warren and his daughter
+Miss Warren. They——�</p>
+
+<p>But at the first word Mr. Stuart had risen
+and the two men were enthusiastically shaking
+hands.</p>
+
+<p>“Why, Warren,� exclaimed Mr. Stuart, “I
+had no idea that you were in this part of the
+world. The last time I saw you, you were
+ranching out in Idaho.�</p>
+
+<p>“Quite true,� replied Mr. Warren, smiling,
+“but that was ten years ago. A great many
+things have happened since then.� He sighed
+and looked out over the blue lake. “Mrs. Warren
+died the next year,� he said slowly. “Maud
+and I are alone.�</p>
+
+<p>“I am deeply sorry to hear of your great
+loss,� sympathized Mr. Stuart and his fine face
+saddened. He too had known that loss.</p>
+
+<p>Turning to Maud who had been exchanging
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_11'></a>11</span>
+rather distant greetings with the four girls, he
+said pleasantly. “So this is Maud. She was
+a little girl in short dresses when last I saw
+her. How these children do grow up.�</p>
+
+<p>Maud smiled frigidly and for the fraction of
+a second allowed her hand to touch that of Mr.
+Stuart. “One must grow up some time, you
+know,� she murmured.</p>
+
+<p>“I should like to stay eighteen forever,� exclaimed
+Ruth, with enthusiasm.</p>
+
+<p>“Would you indeed?� remarked Maud Warren,
+raising her eyebrows. “How odd!�</p>
+
+<p>There was a brief silence. The four girls
+stared straight ahead and tried to control their
+desire to laugh. During their stay at Lenox
+the year before the circumstances of which having
+been fully told in the “<span class='sc'>Automobile Girls
+in the Berkshires</span>,� they had not been impressed
+with Maud Warren, on account of her
+disagreeable and overbearing manner. But the
+blasé air that she now affected, was in their
+candid eyes extremely ridiculous, and her remark
+to Ruth had filled them all with unseemly
+mirth.</p>
+
+<p>Maud Warren, however, serenely unconscious
+of what was passing through their minds, sank
+into a wicker chair, and deliberately turning
+her back upon the “Automobile Girls,� began
+a conversation with Miss Sallie.
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_12'></a>12</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>The “Automobile Girls� dated their organization
+back to almost two years before, when
+Barbara Thurston had bravely stopped a runaway
+team of horses driven by Ruth Stuart, a
+rich western girl, summering in Kingsbridge,
+the home town of the Thurstons.</p>
+
+<p>A warm friendship had sprung up between
+Ruth Stuart, Barbara and Mollie Thurston,
+that resulted in a journey to Newport in Ruth’s
+red motor car, familiarly known as Mr. A. Bubble.
+Grace Carter, a Kingsbridge girl, had been
+asked to complete the quartette of adventurous
+damsels, while Miss Sallie Stuart, Ruth’s aunt
+had gone along as chaperon.</p>
+
+<p>After a series of remarkable events their
+trip ended with the capture of a society
+“cracksman,� known to the police as the “Boy
+Raffles.� The “Automobile Girls� then returned
+to Kingsbridge, where several weeks
+later, Mr. A. Bubble once more bore them away
+to the heart of the Berkshires. There they
+spent a delightful month, in a little log cabin,
+roughing it. In “<span class='sc'>The Automobile Girls in the
+Berkshires</span>,� the story of the little Indian
+“ghost� that haunted “Lost Man’s Trail,� and
+who afterwards turned out to be an Indian
+princess is charmingly related.</p>
+
+<p>After a winter of hard study, the “Automobile
+Girls� were again reunited, and in “<span class='sc'>The</span>
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_13'></a>13</span>
+<span class='sc'>Automobile Girls Along the Hudson</span>,� their
+journey through the beautiful Sleepy Hollow
+Country is narrated. The eventful weeks spent
+in the ancestral home of Major Ten Eyck, an
+old friend of Miss Sallie Stuart’s, ending with
+their brave fight to save the beautiful old house
+from destruction by forest fires, made the “Automobile
+Girls� stand out as true heroines.</p>
+
+<p>The best work since their initial adventure,
+however, had been done in Chicago, and the
+record of it, set down in “<span class='sc'>The Automobile
+Girls at Chicago</span>,� was not yet three months
+old. While on a holiday visit to Ruth, at her
+Chicago home, they had been the guests of the
+Presbys, relatives of the Stuarts, at their country
+place “Treasureholme.� Owing to imprudent
+speculation in wheat, both Mr. Stuart and
+Mr. Presby had become heavily involved and
+were facing financial ruin. Through the efforts
+of Barbara Thurston, aided by the other “Automobile
+Girls� the rich treasure, buried by
+one of the ancestors, was discovered in time to
+save the Presby estate.</p>
+
+<p>Before leaving Chicago, Mr. Stuart had promised
+his daughter and her friends a sojourn at
+Palm Beach during the month of March. Now
+the “Automobile Girls� had actually arrived
+in the “Land of Flowers� eager for any pleasure
+that sunny Florida might yield them.
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_14'></a>14</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>The four young girls were unusually quiet as
+they sat idly looking out over the water. Maud
+Warren’s arrival had cast a chill over them.</p>
+
+<p>It had been an enchanted land, Barbara reflected
+rather resentfully, now the enchantment
+was broken.</p>
+
+<p>Ruth sat covertly taking stock of Miss Warren’s
+elaborate white lace gown and wondering
+why young girls ever insisted on aping so called
+“society� fashions. While Mollie and Grace
+speculated as to how long a call the Warrens
+were going to make.</p>
+
+<p>Maud, totally oblivious that she had been
+weighed in the balance by four stern young
+judges, and found wanting, languidly conversed
+with Miss Stuart, in her most grown-up manner.</p>
+
+<p>“Have you met the De Lancey Smythes, Miss
+Stuart?� she drawled. “They are too utterly
+charming. Mrs. De Lancey Smythe belongs to
+an old, old Southern family. She is a widow,
+with one daughter, Marian, a most delightful
+young woman. It was only through them that
+I was persuaded to come here.�</p>
+
+<p>“Indeed,� replied Miss Sallie. “We arrived
+yesterday. Therefore we have met no one, as
+yet.�</p>
+
+<p>“Of course not,� agreed Maud. “You really
+must meet them!�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_15'></a>15</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>“I should be pleased to meet any friends of
+yours, Miss Warren,� replied Miss Stuart
+courteously.</p>
+
+<p>“By the way, Stuart,� said Mr. Warren,
+“what do you say to a sail in my launch, this
+afternoon? I should like to entertain some one
+besides the De Lancey Smythes. They are too
+fine for me. I am just a plain blunt man, and
+can’t stand too many extra frills. Maud, see
+to it that you don’t invite them. I absolutely
+refuse to be bothered with them, to-day.�</p>
+
+<p>Maud flushed hotly at her father’s contemptuous
+allusion to the De Lancey Smythes. But
+restraining her feelings she turned to Miss Stuart
+with a forced attempt at graciousness.</p>
+
+<p>“Won’t you come for a sail? It will be awfully
+good of you.�</p>
+
+<p>“We should be delighted, I am sure,� replied
+Mr. Stuart, looking gravely at Maud. He then
+turned a compassionate gaze toward his friend,
+Mr. Warren. “That is, I mean we shall go
+with you, provided my sister has made no other
+plans.�</p>
+
+<p>“Are you sure your launch won’t pitch, Mr.
+Warren?� inquired Miss Stuart.</p>
+
+<p>“I am perfectly certain, Miss Stuart,� replied
+the millionaire. “The lake is like a mill
+pond to-day. There is not a ripple on it.�</p>
+
+<p>While they had been making their plans for
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_16'></a>16</span>
+the afternoon, a man had been leaning idly
+against the railing of the piazza. He now
+strolled quietly away, without having appeared
+to notice any one of them, or to have overheard
+any of their conversation.</p>
+
+<p>But Barbara had observed him. She had an
+unquenchable curiosity concerning faces. And
+this man appeared indefinably interesting.</p>
+
+<p>Was it the foreign cut of his dark suit, conspicuous
+among the crowds of white ones worn
+by most of the men at Palm Beach? Or was it
+his strong, clean-shaven face with its rather
+heavy bull-dog jaw, its square chin, and keen
+gray eyes, a little too narrow for Bab’s taste?
+Bab did not know, then. But she took in the
+man’s whole expression, and the adverse opinion
+she silently formed, at that time, she never
+had occasion to change.</p>
+
+<p>As the party was about to separate for
+luncheon two women appeared in a nearby doorway
+and stood looking up and down the piazza.</p>
+
+<p>“Oh, there are dear Marian and her mother!�
+cried Maud, hurrying over to greet her friends.</p>
+
+<p>“Dear Mrs. De Lancey Smythe,� exclaimed
+Maud, with a defiant look toward her father,
+“I do so want you to go out with us in our
+launch this afternoon. Won’t you let me introduce
+some new friends to you, who are going
+to sail with us?�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_17'></a>17</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Warren turned red. A look of disappointment,
+verging on anger crept into his good-natured
+brown eyes as his daughter deliberately
+defied him.</p>
+
+<p>The De Lancey Smythes glanced toward the
+Stuart party, with bored indifference.</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. De Lancey Smythe made some low-voiced
+remark to Maud who nodded her head
+slightly. Whereupon mother and daughter
+moved toward Miss Stuart with an air of
+haughty condescension.</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. De Lancey Smythe might have been
+anywhere from thirty-five to forty-five. She
+was tall, well-proportioned and a decided
+brunette. At a glance one would have decided
+her to be very handsome, but close observers
+would have noted a hard expression about
+the eyes and mouth that completely destroyed
+the effect of beauty. As for her daughter,
+Marian, she was a small, slender insignificant
+young woman who seemed entirely overshadowed
+by her mother’s personality.</p>
+
+<p>Both mother and daughter were dressed perhaps
+a shade too elaborately for good taste,
+and there was something about them that immediately
+aroused a sense of vague disapproval
+in the minds of the Stuart party.</p>
+
+<p>“Maud is always so thoughtful of her
+friends,� murmured Mrs. De Lancey Smythe,
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_18'></a>18</span>
+turning to Miss Sallie with well simulated appreciation.
+“She knows how fond we are of
+sailing.�</p>
+
+<p>Miss Sallie looked sharply at the speaker.
+The De Lancey Smythes were evidently unaware
+of Mr. Warren’s animosity toward them.
+She was about to frame some polite excuse for
+not going on the launch, hoping to thus nip in
+the bud the proposed sail, when suddenly meeting
+Mr. Warren’s eyes, she saw an expression
+of entreaty in them that made her hesitate.</p>
+
+<p>“I hope you and your ‘Automobile Girls’ will
+not disappoint me,� he said pleadingly.</p>
+
+<p>“Thank you,� responded Miss Stuart. “We
+shall be pleased to go.�</p>
+
+<p>With a formal bow to Mrs. De Lancey Smythe
+and her daughter, Miss Sallie marshaled her
+little force and left the piazza.</p>
+
+<p>“Very charming people,� remarked Mrs. De
+Lancey Smythe, to Maud Warren, after they
+had disappeared. But there was an unpleasant
+light in her eyes, and a certain tightening
+of her lips that showed resentment at the manner
+of her reception by the Stuart party.</p>
+
+<p>“We shall be obliged to play our cards very
+carefully,� she warned Marian, when in the
+privacy of their own apartment. “That Miss
+Stuart seems already inclined to be hostile. As
+for those girls——�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_19'></a>19</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>“I think they’re the nicest looking girls I’ve
+seen for a long time. Ever so much nicer than
+Maud Warren,� exclaimed Marian.</p>
+
+<p>“Hold your tongue,� commanded her mother
+angrily. “Don’t let me hear any more remarks
+of that kind, or you’ll have cause to regret
+them.�</p>
+
+<p>Marian relapsed into sulky silence. She
+knew her mother only too well. Nevertheless
+she made up her mind to try honestly to make
+a good impression upon the first girls with
+whom she had ever wished to be friends.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Stuart and Mr. Warren did not at once
+follow their respective charges in to luncheon,
+but sat down on a wide settee in one corner of
+the piazza for a long talk. One topic of conversation
+followed another, until at last Mr.
+Warren lowered his voice and said:</p>
+
+<p>“Stuart, I am going to ask a favor of you
+because I need your help more than I can say.
+You see,� he went on, his face flushing painfully
+with embarrassment, “I have tried to give
+my daughter the proper sort of care. I have
+certainly spared no money in the effort. But
+what can money, alone, do for a motherless
+girl?� His voice choked a little. “Perhaps
+I should have married again, if only on Maud’s
+account. But I tell you, Bob, I couldn’t. My
+wife’s memory is still too dear to me. No
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_20'></a>20</span>
+other woman has ever interested me.� He
+paused a moment, then looked away, while Mr.
+Stuart patted his shoulder sympathetically.</p>
+
+<p>“And now,� went on poor Mr. Warren,
+shaking his head sadly, “my girl has fallen in
+with a lot of society people who are doing her
+more harm than good—for instance, these people
+you have just seen are among the number.
+You wonder, perhaps, why I don’t like the De
+Lancey Smythes. No one can deny that they
+make a good appearance but there’s something
+about the mother that I distrust. She’s not
+genuine, and although she tries to conceal it
+she’s not well-bred. Maud won’t believe it, and
+can’t be made to see it. But I can. Now I believe,
+if she goes about with your four nice,
+wholesome girls and a fine woman like Miss Stuart,
+she’ll open her eyes a trifle. And I want
+to ask you, old man, to stand by me and help
+me out. Ask your girls to help me save my
+girl from her own foolishness and the influence
+of just such people as these De Lancey Smythes.
+Will you help me Stuart, for ‘auld lang syne’?�</p>
+
+<p>“Why of course I will, Tom,� replied good-natured
+Mr. Stuart warmly, grasping Mr. Warren’s
+hand. “I’ll tell my sister, Sallie, too.
+She’ll know just what to do with Maud.�</p>
+
+<p>“But you understand, Bob, we shall be
+obliged to go at this business tactfully,�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_21'></a>21</span>
+protested poor Mr. Warren. “I am afraid my
+daughter is a difficult proposition at times, poor
+child. But she’ll come through all right. She
+is only nineteen. There’s a lot of time yet.�</p>
+
+<p>“Oh, Sallie will manage. Trust Maud to her,
+my friend. And now, let’s go in to luncheon,�
+returned Mr. Stuart.</p>
+
+<p>At luncheon, Mr. Stuart repeated his conversation
+with Mr. Warren to Miss Sallie and the
+“Automobile Girls.�</p>
+
+<p>“I am afraid Maud will be exceedingly difficult
+to manage,� Miss Sallie demurred. “She
+is a law unto herself. As for those De Lancey
+Smythes, I shall endeavor to find out something
+about their social position.� Miss Sallie
+looked about her with the air of a duchess.
+“But, since you have given your promise to
+your friend, we will do what we can for Maud.�</p>
+
+<p>The girls also promised their aid. And so,
+for the time being, the matter was settled.</p>
+<div class='chapter'>
+<a id='chII'></a>
+<p class='cln0'>CHAPTER II</p>
+<p class='cln1'>A WEST INDIAN SQUALL</p>
+</div>
+
+
+<p>By half past two that afternoon Mr. Warren’s
+launch with its party of pleasure
+seekers was well under way.</p>
+
+<p>The “Automobile Girls� had gathered in
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_22'></a>22</span>
+one end, and were enthusiastically commenting
+on the beauty of the scenery. Miss Sallie had
+been conscientiously trying to cultivate Maud
+Warren, and rather than antagonize her in the
+beginning had exerted herself to be agreeable
+to the De Lancey Smythes. Mrs. De Lancey
+Smythe, however, had other views afoot than
+the cultivation of Miss Sallie, and had immediately
+engaged in conversation with Mr. Stuart.
+Hardly had the launch put out from shore, before
+she beckoned him to one side of the little
+deck, and complacently kept him there until
+Ruth, far from pleased with this turn of affairs,
+called to her father to join them. But
+Mrs. De Lancey Smythe proved equal to the occasion,
+for rising gracefully, she calmly strolled
+by Mr. Stuart’s side to the end of the launch
+where the four girls were seated. Here they
+were joined by Miss Sallie, who had been watching
+the manœuvres of the other woman with
+well-veiled contempt, and the conversation became
+general.</p>
+
+<p>“Do you know many people here, Mrs.
+Smythe?� asked Miss Sallie, turning to the
+other woman.</p>
+
+<p>“Only a few,� replied Mrs. De Lancey
+Smythe indifferently. “Most of the people I
+know have been abroad all winter. Many of
+my dearest friends are among the peerage. Two
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_23'></a>23</span>
+people I know well, arrived to-day, however.
+The young Count de Sonde and his friend, Monsieur
+Duval.�</p>
+
+<p>She pronounced the two names with a faultless
+accent that was not lost upon the practised
+ears of Ruth, who had spoken French fluently
+since she was a child and had had a French
+nursery governess for years. Whatever were
+her shortcomings, Mrs. De Lancey Smythe could
+at least speak French.</p>
+
+<p>“A real count!� exclaimed Mollie. “How interesting!�</p>
+
+<p>“Oh, we know lots of titled people,� Marian
+interposed. “There were two countesses and
+a marquis at our hotel in Newport last summer.�</p>
+
+<p>“Isn’t all this lovely?� cried Barbara. She
+was not interested in counts and titles. She
+was keenly alive to the beauty of the scenery
+about them. “I can’t decide which out-blues
+the other, the lake or the sky.�</p>
+
+<p>“But aren’t there a great many clouds in the
+sky?� questioned Ruth. “See how they have
+piled up over there? Do you suppose, by any
+chance, that we shall have rain? We were told
+that it never rained down here. It simply isn’t
+tolerated.�</p>
+
+<p>The launch was now running far out from
+the shore, which was lined with pretty villas,
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_24'></a>24</span>
+set here and there in the midst of cocoanut
+palms and oleander trees. Following the boat’s
+path of rippling waves came another launch
+much smaller than Mr. Warren’s. It was
+manned by two men who had apparently not
+observed them. The men were deep in earnest
+conversation.</p>
+
+<p>“Oh, Marian, there is the Count de Sonde
+with his friend!� exclaimed her mother. “How
+fortunate that we should run across them, just
+now.�</p>
+
+<p>“Which one is the count?� asked Maud Warren.
+She had taken very little interest in anything
+before. “I hope he is not the older
+man.�</p>
+
+<p>“No; he is the slender, dark-haired one,� returned
+Mrs. Smythe. “He is dressed in white.�</p>
+
+<p>In the meantime Mr. Stuart had changed his
+seat. He had come to Palm Beach to enjoy his
+four “Automobile Girls.� No fascinating
+widow should swerve him from his original
+plans. Like most hard-working successful men
+he loved a holiday like a schoolboy and resented
+deeply any interference with his pleasure.</p>
+
+<p>“Are my girls having a good time?� he
+queried, smiling into four charming faces.</p>
+
+<p>“Yes, indeed!� exclaimed four voices in
+chorus.</p>
+
+<p>“We thought the scenery beautiful in the
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_25'></a>25</span>
+Berkshires and along the Hudson river, Mr.
+Stuart. But this is the most beautiful of all!�
+cried Mollie, clasping her small hands ecstatically.</p>
+
+<p>“Do you suppose people ever really work
+here?� inquired Grace. “It is like fairy land.
+Everything happens by magic.�</p>
+
+<p>“You are right, Grace. This is a land of
+pleasure,� returned Mr. Stuart. “The only
+people who work are the employés in the hotels
+and the servants in the cottages.�</p>
+
+<p>“Palm Beach is dedicated to pleasure,� explained
+Ruth, “because it was by accident that
+it came to be here at all. So it can just as well
+be spared for an earthly paradise.�</p>
+
+<p>“Why is Palm Beach an accident?� queried
+Mollie.</p>
+
+<p>“Years ago this was just a wild, desolate
+coast,� Ruth went on. “Even now the wilderness
+is only a mile away. There was a wreck
+out there, somewhere, on the other side of the
+peninsula,� she pointed toward the ocean. “A
+ship was loaded with cocoanuts, which were
+washed ashore. By and by the cocoanuts
+sprouted and grew into tall palm trees. So
+this barren shore was transformed into one of
+the most beautiful palm groves in the world.�</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Stuart pinched his daughter’s cheek.
+“You’ve been stealing a march on us, Mistress
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_26'></a>26</span>
+Ruth,� he said. “You have been reading a
+guide book.�</p>
+
+<p>Just then a shadow clouded the brilliant sunshine.
+The engineer of the launch glanced up
+uneasily.</p>
+
+<p>“You don’t think it is going to rain, do you?�
+asked Mr. Warren.</p>
+
+<p>“It would be a very unusual thing if it did,
+sir,� replied the man, without committing himself.</p>
+
+<p>A fresh wind had come up, bearing with it
+the fragrance of many flowers. It seemed to
+have blown over miles of lily beds and orange
+groves. Barbara closed her eyes as she
+breathed in the warm, scented air. “How easy
+to forget all responsibilities, in an enchanted
+place like this!� she thought. “How easy just
+to drift along.�</p>
+
+<p>“Papa, do tell the man to turn back,� said
+Maud in a voice that broke unpleasantly into
+Bab’s reflections. “It’s getting a little chilly.
+And besides, we must have tea this afternoon
+in the cocoanut grove.�</p>
+
+<p>“Very well, my dear,� replied her father,
+turning to give his order to the engineer.</p>
+
+<p>The launch swung around. Immediately the
+whole party spied another boat bobbing helplessly
+on the water. One of the men in it was
+leaning over examining the machinery of the
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_27'></a>27</span>
+frail craft. The other one, in white, stood at
+the side of the boat, scanning the water.</p>
+
+<p>No other launches were in sight. The many
+pleasure boats which had dotted the lake with
+flecks of white, only a few minutes before, had
+now put in to shore. A black cloud had spread
+itself over the whole sky, casting a dark and
+ominous shadow over the lake.</p>
+
+<p>As all the world knows—at least the part of
+the world which lives on pleasure waters—a
+strict etiquette prevails among these small
+boats. One boat always helps another in distress.</p>
+
+<p>The engineer of Mr. Warren’s launch did not
+wait for orders. He turned at once toward the
+drifting craft.</p>
+
+<p>“Is your engine broken?� he asked, as the
+boats touched sides.</p>
+
+<p>The young man in white was the Count de
+Sonde himself. He looked decidedly relieved
+at the appearance of the rescuers. He removed
+his Panama hat with a flourish and bowed
+low to the women. The other man answered the
+boatman.</p>
+
+<p>“We are quite helpless, you see,� the count
+ejaculated, shrugging his shoulders and raising
+his eyebrows at the same time. “My friend
+can do nothing.�</p>
+
+<p>In the meantime the friend had arisen from
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_28'></a>28</span>
+the engine. He was examining the boatload of
+people with guarded interest.</p>
+
+<p>“How do you do, Count? How are you, Monsieur
+Duval?� called Mrs. De Lancey Smythe.</p>
+
+<p>It was not a time for conventional introductions.
+The boatman made a line fast from the
+small craft to the larger one. He meant to tow
+the smaller launch toward home.</p>
+
+<p>But Mrs. De Lancey Smythe persisted. Mr.
+Warren and his friends must meet the Count
+de Sonde and Monsieur Duval.</p>
+
+<p>Suddenly the heavens were shaken by a terrific
+clap of thunder.</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Smythe gave a little scream. “I am
+always frightened during a storm,� she
+averred. “Mr. Stuart, would it be too much to
+ask you to assist me into the cabin?�</p>
+
+<p>Miss Sallie glanced rather contemptuously at
+the other woman, and wondered if her fright
+were real. Mr. Stuart rose and courteously assisted
+Mrs. De Lancey Smythe into the tiny
+cabin, just as a driving sheet of rain bore down
+upon them.</p>
+
+<p>The “Automobile Girls� crouched in the centre
+of the boat. Maud and Marian followed
+Mrs. Smythe.</p>
+
+<p>“Make for the nearest boathouse!� called Mr.
+Warren to his engineer. “We can’t get back to
+the hotel in such a storm as this.�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_29'></a>29</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>The storm now burst in all its West Indian
+fury. The waters were churned into foam.
+The wind whistled and roared. The two small
+boats tossed about on the water like chips.</p>
+
+<p>“We are just in time!� exclaimed Mr. Warren,
+as they at last reached the boathouse. “In
+another five minutes I believe we should have
+been swamped.� He helped the women from
+the boat to the pier.</p>
+
+<p>“What an escape!� gasped Mrs. Smythe.
+“Marian, my darling, are you all right?�</p>
+
+<p>“Perfectly, Mama,� replied her daughter
+rather scornfully. It was plain to the four
+“Automobile Girls� that Marian did not entirely
+approve of her mother’s display of fear,
+and the tone in which she had answered told
+its own story.</p>
+
+<p>The little company sought the shelter of the
+boathouse. The two foreigners went with them.
+In one of the men, Bab recognized the stranger
+she had noticed that morning on the hotel
+piazza. Mrs. De Lancey Smythe introduced
+him as Monsieur Duval.</p>
+
+<p>“We were very lucky to have met you, sir,�
+Mr. Duval said to Mr. Stuart. Bab noticed
+that he spoke very good English, with only a
+slight foreign accent. “I am afraid our boat
+would have sunk if you had not come to our
+rescue.�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_30'></a>30</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Stuart bowed politely, but coldly. He
+was wondering if his girls and Miss Sallie
+would have bad colds from their wetting. They
+were standing apart from the others, laughing
+at their plight.</p>
+
+<p>The young Count de Sonde had joined Marian
+and her mother, as soon as he entered the boathouse,
+but Maud was with them. It was upon
+Maud that the count immediately bestowed his
+attention. He smiled upon her, until Maud’s
+foolish head began to flutter. Just think of
+capturing the attentions of a real count so
+quickly! Mr. Warren saw his daughter’s delight
+and frowned slightly. Maud must not get
+any foolish ideas about foreigners in her head.
+He would put an end to that nonsense. He was
+about to stride over and take charge of affairs
+when a man servant in plain livery appeared
+on the path near the boathouse door. He had
+come from the pretty villa, which was only a
+hundred yards back from the boathouse, set in
+a thick grove of palms. The man carried a
+large bundle of wraps and umbrellas. He
+paused respectfully when he reached the steps
+leading to the pavilion.</p>
+
+<p>“My lady would be glad if you would seek
+shelter from the storm in her house,� he said
+in broken English to Mr. Warren.</p>
+
+<p>It was great fun to scamper through the
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_31'></a>31</span>
+pouring rain to the pretty villa. The foreign
+coats and capes kept everyone dry. Now that
+they were on land Mr. Warren’s boat party had
+begun to regard their adventure somewhat
+lightly.</p>
+
+<p>Once on the porch of the villa they were
+ushered into a large, low-ceilinged room at one
+end of which a fire of pine knots was burning
+brightly. The room was empty. The newcomers
+clustered about the blaze to dry their
+soaked shoes.</p>
+
+<p>The room held very little furniture. Yet it
+appeared to Bab as one of the most beautiful
+rooms she had ever seen. A grand piano stood
+at one end, and a few graceful wicker chairs
+were scattered about the apartment. The room
+had an indescribable look of elegance. Was it
+the bare highly polished floor, with only the
+Persian rug to break its shining surface? Or
+was it the enormous bunch of daffodils in a cut
+glass bowl on the table that lent the place its
+charm? Bab did not know. On the mantelpiece
+between two tall brass candle-sticks stood
+a beautiful marble bust. Barbara afterwards
+learned that it was known as “The Head of an
+Unknown Lady.�</p>
+
+<p>A handsome leather writing-case lay open on
+the table. It displayed on the inner side a large
+crest picked out in dull gold. The firelight
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_32'></a>32</span>
+shone on the gold outlines and threw them into
+dull relief.</p>
+
+<p>Bab saw the Frenchman, Monsieur Duval,
+walk over to this table. He examined the crest
+intently for a moment, then turned away.</p>
+
+<p>At this instant two women came in through
+the open door. The one, who was quite old,
+supported herself with a gold-headed mahogany
+cane. The other was young and very beautiful.</p>
+
+<p>The older woman was rather terrifying in
+aspect. She had a hooked nose and her bright,
+beady little eyes regarded the company with a
+look of amused tolerance.</p>
+
+<p>The younger woman came forward to meet
+her unknown guests without the slightest embarrassment
+or affectation. The “Automobile
+Girls� held their breath. Surely she was the
+most exquisite creature they had ever beheld.</p>
+<div class='chapter'>
+<a id='chIII'></a>
+<p class='cln0'>CHAPTER III</p>
+<p class='cln1'>THE FAIR UNKNOWN</p>
+</div>
+
+
+<p>“I am afraid you must be very cold and
+wet,� the young woman said, in a clear
+sweet voice, with an accent that the girls
+had never heard before. She was graceful
+with an elegance of manner that to imaginative
+Bab seemed almost regal.
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_33'></a>33</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Stuart went forward. “It is most kind
+and hospitable of you to take us in like this,�
+he declared. “We would certainly have been
+very uncomfortable if we had stayed in the boathouse
+for such a length of time. We are deeply
+grateful to you.�</p>
+
+<p>“Do sit down,� the young woman answered.
+“And won’t you have some tea? It may warm
+you.� She pressed an electric bell in the wall.
+A man servant appeared, and she gave him her
+orders in German.</p>
+
+<p>The “Automobile Girls� clustered together
+in the window seat. Their unknown hostess
+sank into a low chair near them. Miss Sallie
+and Mrs. De Lancey Smythe were left to the
+mercy of the old lady with the beaked nose.
+Maud and the count withdrew to one corner of
+the room, where they chatted softly, the latter
+bent on displaying all his powers of fascination.</p>
+
+<p>“Are these your four daughters?� asked the
+young mistress of the villa, turning to Mr. Stuart,
+after a friendly glance at the “Automobile
+Girls.�</p>
+
+<p>“No,� Mr. Stuart replied, laughing and shaking
+his head. “I am sorry to say I can boast
+of only one daughter. The three other girls
+are her friends. But they are all my girls. At
+least I call them my ‘Automobile Girls’!�</p>
+
+<p>“Ah,� replied the young woman apparently
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_34'></a>34</span>
+puzzled. “How is it that you call them the
+‘Automobile Girls’? Do young girls run motor
+cars in your country? Their independence is
+quite wonderful, I think.�</p>
+
+<p>“Ruth is our chauffeur,� explained Bab, who
+was looking closely at the beautiful face of her
+hostess. The latter’s dark brown hair was arranged
+in a braid and wound about her head
+like a coronet but it broke into little soft curls
+around her face. She had a small straight nose
+and the curve of her red lips was perfect. The
+coutour of her face was oval and her large dark
+eyes were touched with an undefinable sadness.
+She was tall and slender, and she wore a plain,
+white woolen frock that emphasized the lines
+of her graceful figure. The simplicity of her
+costume was not marred by a single ornament.
+Even her long, slender fingers were bare of
+rings.</p>
+
+<p>She turned to pretty Mollie, taking one of
+her small hands in her own cool fingers. “Do
+these little hands also run a motor car?� the
+hostess asked.</p>
+
+<p>Mollie looked long into the beautiful face.
+Somehow its hidden sadness touched her. Mollie’s
+blue eyes filled with tears. She felt
+strangely timid.</p>
+
+<p>“Why, you must not be afraid of me, dear
+one,� said the young woman. She gazed into
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_35'></a>35</span>
+Mollie’s blue eyes appealingly, and softly
+pressed her hand. “I’m a girl like yourself,
+only I am much older. But I love younger girls
+very dearly. You must let me be your friend.�
+To the amazement of the other girls this exquisite
+stranger bent over and kissed Mollie on
+the lips.</p>
+
+<p>“I should be very happy to have you for my
+friend,� returned Mollie, a smile quivering
+through her tears. “And I wasn’t the least bit
+frightened. I think perhaps it was the storm
+that made me so silly. Bab sometimes calls me
+a cry baby.�</p>
+
+<p>“Which one of you is Bab? And what a
+pretty name that is!� exclaimed the young
+hostess.</p>
+
+<p>Barbara stepped forward with a friendly
+smile. Mr. Stuart then presented Grace and
+Ruth.</p>
+
+<p>But still their new friend did not reveal her
+identity.</p>
+
+<p>She was a foreigner. There was no doubt of
+that. She had spoken in German to her servant.
+Perhaps she was German? She confessed
+that this was her first visit to America.
+The climate of New York had driven her south.
+Yet she did not mention her name or her country.</p>
+
+<p>Presently the man servant returned to the
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_36'></a>36</span>
+room carrying a tea service. He was followed
+by a comely German maid, who carried a tray
+laden with buttered toast and a large dish of
+German cookies.</p>
+
+<p>The man lit the candles and a lamp covered
+with a yellow shade.</p>
+
+<p>A soft, mellow glow pervaded the beautiful
+room. There was a pleasant silence and all
+eyes were turned to their lovely young hostess,
+whose slender white hands busied themselves
+with the tea things.</p>
+
+<p>“A friendly cup of tea on a day like this,
+makes the whole world kin,� she said, smiling
+brightly at her guests. “It banishes sad
+thoughts and one grows cheerful, even though
+the weather behaves itself so badly.�</p>
+
+<p>“We have a proverb,� laughed Ruth, “that
+says ‘it’s an ill wind that blows no one good.’
+We should really thank the weather for misbehaving.�</p>
+
+<p>“Ah, that is broad flattery,� cried their
+hostess with a silvery laugh. “But oh so
+charming.�</p>
+
+<p>“Do you not find it dull staying at an out-of-the-way
+place like this?� broke in Mrs. De Lancey
+Smythe, looking about her with a patronizing
+air. “I am quite sure I have never seen
+you at the Beach.�</p>
+
+<p>The “Automobile Girls� exchanged lightning
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_37'></a>37</span>
+glances. Mrs. Smythe’s abrupt remark jarred
+upon them, and simultaneously it occurred to
+them that she was distinctly underbred.</p>
+
+<p>Marian’s face flushed, and she bit her lip.
+“I think this quiet place must be enchanting,�
+she said almost defiantly. “I hate hotels.�</p>
+
+<p>“Really, Marian,� said her mother coldly.
+“Your opinion has not been solicited.�</p>
+
+<p>“They’re going to quarrel,� thought Barbara.
+“How disagreeable that woman is. She
+is so snippy, and calculating and deceitful. I
+rather like Marian, though.�</p>
+
+<p>But their hostess averted any domestic altercation
+by saying sweetly. “I am indeed a
+stranger, here, but I came for rest and quiet,
+therefore I have little desire to frequent the
+Beach or its hotels.�</p>
+
+<p>“Quite true,� responded Mrs. De Lancey
+Smythe, and hastily turning her attention to
+the imposing looking old woman with the gold
+headed cane she said, “You are German, I
+presume.�</p>
+
+<p>“Why German?� replied the old lady, observing
+her questioner with a dangerous glitter
+in her small black eyes.</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. De Lancey Smythe showed signs of confusion.</p>
+
+<p>“I thought you were Germans because you
+spoke German to your servant,� she said,
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_38'></a>38</span>
+trying to look haughty and thus carry off what
+promised to be an unpleasant situation.</p>
+
+<p>“Ah, yes,� returned her antagonist. “But
+does it follow that one is of the same country
+as one’s servants? We have also employed
+both French and English maids.�</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. De Lancey Smythe did not deem it wise
+to continue the conversation. She therefore
+turned her attention to Mr. Duval who had been
+listening to the conversation with a curious smile
+on his clever face.</p>
+
+<p>Miss Sallie was delighted with the strange
+old woman. Her abruptness was amusing.
+Miss Stuart began discussing a number of current
+topics with her in an impersonal, well-bred
+manner, neither woman showing the slightest
+curiosity about the other’s personal affairs.</p>
+
+<p>“Count de Sonde!� called Mrs. De Lancey
+Smythe suddenly.</p>
+
+<p>There was an immediate lull in the conversation.</p>
+
+<p>The young mistress of the villa stared at the
+“Automobile Girls.� Her face turned pale.
+She leaned back in her chair. “Count de
+Sonde!� she whispered to herself.</p>
+
+<p>Mollie was at her new friend’s side in an instant.
+“I am afraid you are ill,� she suggested.
+“Can I do anything for you?�</p>
+
+<p>“No, no, dear child,� replied the other. “It
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_39'></a>39</span>
+was only a momentary faintness. But did I
+not hear some one call the Count de Sonde?
+Is he here?�</p>
+
+<p>“Oh, yes,� returned Mollie politely. “He is
+that young man in white, who is now talking
+with Mrs. De Lancey Smythe.�</p>
+
+<p>Her hostess turned quickly. She looked a
+long time at the young count. “Who is the
+other man near him?� she next asked.</p>
+
+<p>Mollie was again her informant. “He is a
+Mr. Duval,� she explained. “He and the Count
+de Sonde are at the same hotel together.�</p>
+
+<p>At this moment, Maud Warren, who had
+noted her father’s displeased look, decided to
+join the “Automobile Girls,� who were grouped
+around their hostess.</p>
+
+<p>“Do you know,� she said with an air of triumph,
+“the Count de Sonde has invited Papa
+and me and the De Lancey Smythes to visit him
+at his chateau in France next summer?�</p>
+
+<p>The tea-cup of their hostess crashed to the
+floor. It broke into small pieces.</p>
+
+<p>“Don’t trouble to pick up the pieces,� she
+protested to Mr. Stuart. “Johann will do it.
+I am very careless. So you expect to visit
+France next summer?� she continued, turning
+her attention to Maud.</p>
+
+<p>“Yes, Papa and I shall go,� Maud replied.
+“It would be quite novel to visit a chateau.�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_40'></a>40</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>“Delightful. But where is the chateau of the
+De Sonde family?� inquired the other young
+woman.</p>
+
+<p>Maud hesitated. “I am not sure that I
+know,� she replied. “I believe the count said
+it was in Brittany. The count’s family is one
+of the oldest in France.�</p>
+
+<p>“I have not yet had the pleasure of meeting
+the count,� suggested Maud’s hostess. “Perhaps
+you will present him to me.�</p>
+
+<p>In a few moments the young count was leaning
+gracefully against the mantelpiece. He
+was talking with the beautiful stranger, whose
+name was still withheld from her visitors. A
+little later Monsieur Duval joined them.</p>
+
+<p>“Oh, yes, I hasten to assure you, it is quite,
+quite old,� the count explained. He was talking
+of his family in Brittany.</p>
+
+<p>“How far back does your family go?� went
+on his unknown questioner.</p>
+
+<p>The count cleared his throat and choked over
+his fresh cup of tea.</p>
+
+<p>“My friend’s family goes back to the eleventh
+century,� answered Duval quietly. The count
+was still coughing violently.</p>
+
+<p>“And you are the last of your line?� continued
+his hostess. She was addressing the
+count. “It is a pity for such an illustrious race
+to die out. I suppose you will marry?�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_41'></a>41</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>She looked at the young man with such grave
+sweetness that he smiled uneasily and shifted
+his gaze.</p>
+
+<p>“I hope to marry some day, Mademoiselle,�
+he mumbled.</p>
+
+<p>“You have some very old families in
+Germany also, have you not?� inquired Monsieur
+Duval, looking searchingly at the young
+woman.</p>
+
+<p>Did she pause a moment before she answered?
+Bab and Ruth both thought so.</p>
+
+<p>“In what European country are there not
+old families, Monsieur?� she replied courteously.
+“In Italy the old families trace their
+lineage to the gods of mythology. But I am
+interested in a young country like this America.�</p>
+
+<p>“Then you should go to Chicago, if you wish
+to see a really American city,� cried Ruth. “Of
+course, Aunt Sallie and Father and I think our
+Chicago is greater than New York, because it
+is our home.�</p>
+
+<p>“De Lancey Hall, in Virginia, is my family
+home,� drawled Mrs. De Lancey Smythe, with
+a little insolent air of pride. “The De Lanceys
+were a titled French family before they came
+to this country.�</p>
+
+<p>“How very interesting!� exclaimed the
+youthful hostess, in an enigmatic tone. “Do
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_42'></a>42</span>
+people drop their titles in this great free country
+of yours? It is much better, I think. Titles
+mean but little anywhere.� She ended her
+words with a little, serious frown.</p>
+
+<p>“The best heritage that I can lay claim to is
+that of being an American,� exclaimed Ruth,
+with enthusiasm. “America for the Americans!
+Three cheers for the red, white and
+blue!�</p>
+
+<p>“You are a true patriot. Is it not so?�
+laughed the hostess, patting Ruth’s shoulder.
+“Your great free country is so wonderful. Its
+liberty is boundless.� She sighed, and for a
+moment seemed wrapped in thought. Then
+turning to Mr. Stuart and Mr. Warren asked
+if they would have more tea.</p>
+
+<p>“No thank you,� replied Mr. Stuart. “In
+fact I believe we had better begin to think about
+getting back to our hotel. The rain has stopped,
+and we need trespass upon your hospitality no
+further.�</p>
+
+<p>“It has been a pleasure to meet you and
+your ‘Automobile Girls,’� the young woman
+replied. Then she added very softly so that
+Mr. Stuart and Mollie who stood with her hand
+clasped in that of the stranger, alone, heard:
+“Won’t you bring them to see me in the near
+future?�</p>
+
+<p>“Oh how lovely!� breathed Mollie.
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_43'></a>43</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>“We shall be very happy, indeed to come,�
+Mr. Stuart replied.</p>
+
+<p>“I thank you for your charming hospitality,
+Mademoiselle,� broke in the suave tones of Mr.
+Duval, who with the count at his heels had
+stepped unnoticed to the young woman’s side.
+“Am I presumptuous in venturing to ask if it
+is your pleasure that we should know to whom
+we are indebted?�</p>
+
+<p>“Ah to be sure. I have been what you call,
+very stupid,� laughed the unknown. “Pray
+pardon me.� Gliding over to the side of the
+stern old woman, she took her hand. “Permit
+me to present my very dear friend, Madame de
+Villiers. I am the Countess Sophia von Stolberg.�</p>
+<div class='chapter'>
+<a id='chIV'></a>
+<p class='cln0'>CHAPTER IV</p>
+<p class='cln1'>THE COMPACT</p>
+</div>
+
+
+<p>“Girls!� exclaimed Ruth, who lay curled
+up on the foot of her bed in a pale
+blue silk kimono. “I feel like offering
+a libation to the Storm King to-night for
+sending us that squall.�</p>
+
+<p>“Why?� inquired Grace, who was not gifted
+with an Oriental imagination.</p>
+
+<p>“Because, if there had been no storm, there
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_44'></a>44</span>
+would have been no Countess Sophia,� replied
+her friend.</p>
+
+<p>“She is hard to understand, but she is so
+beautiful, so gentle and so noble,� observed
+Barbara.</p>
+
+<p>“And she kissed me!� cried Mollie.</p>
+
+<p>“As, yes, Mollie darling, she had a fearful
+crush on you,� laughed Ruth. “We are already
+green with jealousy. It’s those golden baby curls
+of yours that do the business, I suppose. First,
+it was the lovely Mrs. Cartwright you won from
+us at Newport. Now your cerulean eyes have
+hypnotized the Countess Sophia. What shall
+we do to her, girls?�</p>
+
+<p>“Destroy her beauty!� cried Barbara. “Cut
+off her curls and give her two black eyes.�</p>
+
+<p>The three girls pounced on Mollie. There
+was a real tom-boy romp which ended in a burst
+of joyous laughter. For Miss Sallie’s familiar
+rap-tap was heard on the door. Her voice was
+raised in mild protest:</p>
+
+<p>“Children, remember that this is a hotel.�</p>
+
+<p>The girls subsided.</p>
+
+<p>“Do you suppose it would be good form to call
+on the countess to-morrow, when we met her
+only this afternoon?� asked Ruth, as soon as
+she had regained her breath.</p>
+
+<p>“It would be rather rushing things,� answered
+Barbara.
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_45'></a>45</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>“If you will be good, and promise not to lay
+violent hands on me again, I will tell you something,�
+Mollie volunteered.</p>
+
+<p>“We promise,� cried three voices in unison.</p>
+
+<p>“The countess is going to ask us to luncheon
+to-morrow. She whispered it to me just before
+we left her villa this afternoon.�</p>
+
+<p>“Oh, joy!� exclaimed Ruth. “Do you mean
+that she intends to invite the entire party—the
+De Lancey Smythes and all that aggregation?�</p>
+
+<p>“No,� Mollie declared, answering Ruth’s
+previous question. “The countess intends to
+invite only Miss Sallie, Mr. Stuart and the ‘Automobile
+Girls.’�</p>
+
+<p>“But what are we to do about Maud Warren?�
+queried Ruth. “Father has promised
+Mr. Warren we would help him out with Maud.
+Here we are already trying to shake her off. If
+we are going to see a great deal of the countess,
+how shall we manage? I am sure the stern old
+dowager would never endure Maud’s grown up
+manner for a moment. And Maud won’t give
+up those De Lancey Smythes.�</p>
+
+<p>“I think it would be a good idea to take the
+Countess Sophia into our confidence, if we have
+an opportunity,� suggested Barbara. “It
+would not be a betrayal of trust. Because what
+we wish to accomplish is to persuade Maud
+Warren to see the difference between really
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_46'></a>46</span>
+well-bred people like the countess and those
+who pretend to be. I think the Smythes are
+pretenders, the mother at least. She seems to
+be continually on the alert. I watched her yesterday,
+and that high and mighty air that she
+assumes is a cloak to hide her real character.
+It seems to me that she and that Duval man
+have some sort of secret understanding. I
+think——� Barbara paused.</p>
+
+<p>“Well, Sherlock, what do you think?� queried
+Ruth impertinently. “And when you unearth
+her family skeleton may I go along and play
+Doctor Watson?�</p>
+
+<p>“How ridiculous you are, Ruth,� returned
+Barbara, laughing. “I suppose I deserve to be
+teased. I’m always suspecting people’s motives.
+But really I do believe that that Mrs.
+Smythe has a hurtful influence over Maud. Mr.
+Warren doesn’t like to have Maud with her,
+either. You heard the way he spoke this morning.�</p>
+
+<p>“Yes,� exclaimed Ruth. “We also heard
+Miss Maud defy him. She is dreadfully spoiled,
+and we shall be obliged to handle her very carefully.
+If she even suspects we are trying to
+reform her, she will shun our beneficial society
+as she would the plague.�</p>
+
+<p>“I believe I could bear that misfortune,�
+sighed Mollie.
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_47'></a>47</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>But Barbara was serious. “I am truly sorry
+for Maud Warren,� she declared. “I think she
+is just like a blind person. She can’t see anything
+that is good and true. She thinks of nothing
+but money, titles and sham society. I don’t
+see how we can do her any good.�</p>
+
+<p>“Well, her father thinks we can,� Grace
+added. “He told me on our way back from the
+launch party, that he hoped we would be friends
+with Maud, for she needed the companionship
+of sensible girls. He said that he hoped she
+would take more interest in outdoor sports, and
+drop some of the newfangled society ideas she
+has adopted.�</p>
+
+<p>“I’ll tell you a secret,� said Barbara slowly.
+“I think that Maud was impressed with the
+Count de Sonde, or rather his title.�</p>
+
+<p>“And the count seemed to be equally impressed
+with Maud,� interposed Ruth. “I believe
+he is one of those foreigners with no
+money, and plenty of title that one reads about
+in the Sunday papers.�</p>
+
+<p>“Some of them don’t have even the title,�
+said Mollie with a worldly air that contrasted
+oddly with her baby face. “They are just waiters
+who pretend that they are real counts.�</p>
+
+<p>“Hear, hear,� cried Ruth, “Mollie the
+worldly wise is holding forth!�</p>
+
+<p>“Well, you needn’t make fun of me, Ruth,�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_48'></a>48</span>
+said Mollie stoutly. “It’s all true. I read about
+one last week who married a rich American
+girl. She fell in love with his title. After she
+had married him she found out that his name
+was Jean, something or other, that he had been
+a waiter, and was wanted by the police for
+forgery. Just think girls how dreadfully she
+must have felt!�</p>
+
+<p>“I should say so,� averred Grace, who always
+championed Mollie’s cause.</p>
+
+<p>“What’s your opinion of the Count de Sonde,
+Barbara?� asked Ruth.</p>
+
+<p>“He didn’t impress me favorably,� replied
+Bab. “He’s too artificial, and too conceited.
+He reminds me of a comic opera Frenchman.
+He looks as though he were ready to run about
+on his toes and shrug his shoulders at the slightest
+pretext.�</p>
+
+<p>“That exactly describes him,� Ruth agreed.
+“I imagine him trilling a silly French song:</p>
+
+<div>
+<p style='margin:0 auto 0 4ex'>“‘Bonjour, mesdames! bonjour, messieurs!</p>
+<p style='margin:0 auto 0 4ex'>Je suis le Comte de Sonde!’�</p>
+</div>
+
+<p>Ruth bowed low, first to Mollie and then to
+Grace. She shrugged her dainty shoulders in
+a perfect imitation of the count.</p>
+
+<p>“But what about Monsieur Duval?� queried
+Mollie.
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_49'></a>49</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>“He’s the backbone of the little count,� said
+Barbara. “He’s the brains and strength of the
+company. If there is any little game to be
+played at Palm Beach—look out for Mr. Duval!�</p>
+
+<p>“But do you suppose they really have a game
+to play?� persisted Ruth.</p>
+
+<p>Bab shook her head. “I don’t know. I suppose
+I am only joking,� she answered. “But
+did you notice how often Mr. Duval came to the
+count’s rescue? He helped him out of a number
+of tight places. Of course it is ridiculous
+to suppose those men have any scheme afoot.
+They are certainly not thieves, like Harry Townsend
+at Newport. I wonder what they are
+after?�</p>
+
+<p>“Oh, nothing, Bab. You are too mysterious,�
+protested Mollie. “I thought we were talking
+about Maud Warren and how we could best
+make friends with her.�</p>
+
+<p>“Girls, let’s enter into a solemn compact,�
+Ruth suggested, lowering her voice to a whisper
+in order to persuade the other girls to listen.</p>
+
+<p>“What kind of compact, child?� Bab demanded.</p>
+
+<p>“A compact to do our best for Maud Warren,�
+said conscientious Ruth. “I tell you,
+girls, it won’t be easy, for Maud isn’t our kind.
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_50'></a>50</span>
+And you know how we like to keep together and
+don’t care much for any outside girl. I know
+we shall have to make a good many sacrifices.
+But Maud must not run around with the
+Smythes and that little French count all the
+time. Let’s make a compact to do our best for
+Maud. Come, join hands.�</p>
+
+<p>The four girls clasped hands. They could not
+foresee into what difficulties this compact
+would lead them.</p>
+
+<p>Tap! tap! Miss Sallie knocked again at the
+door.</p>
+
+<p>“Go to bed at once; it is very late,� she ordered.</p>
+
+<p>Ruth dreamed that night that the four girls
+were sitting in a circle with the Countess Sophia
+von Stolberg. They had hold of one another’s
+hands. They were repeating their vow
+about Maud. Suddenly they were interrupted.
+Monsieur Duval appeared in their midst. The
+Countess Sophia saw the Frenchman. She gave
+a cry of terror and fainted.</p>
+
+<p>Ruth awakened with a start. The night was
+still. The moon shone brightly through the
+open windows and the air was filled with the
+perfume of magnolia blossoms.</p>
+
+<p>“I wonder what the Countess Sophia’s history
+is?� thought Ruth sleepily, as she dropped
+into slumber once more.
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_51'></a>51</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>At her villa, looking across the moonlit lake,
+the beautiful young countess was at that moment
+writing a letter. It was a long letter,
+penned in close fine handwriting. When she had
+finished she slipped the letter into an envelope,
+which she addressed carefully to “M. Le Comte
+Frederic de Sonde.�</p>
+<div class='chapter'>
+<a id='chV'></a>
+<p class='cln0'>CHAPTER V</p>
+<p class='cln1'>THE DAUGHTER OF MRS. DE LANCEY SMYTHE</p>
+</div>
+
+
+<p>Breakfast was hardly over next morning
+before a note on thin foreign paper
+was handed to Miss Sallie Stuart. She
+read it aloud: it asked for the pleasure of their
+company at luncheon. It was signed “Sophia
+von Stolberg.� The messenger would wait for
+the answer. Mr. Stuart was included in the invitation.</p>
+
+<p>“There’s only one answer to that note,�
+laughed Mr. Stuart, scanning the four eager
+faces of the “Automobile Girls.� “Shall I
+translate your expressions into a single word?
+It is ‘yes,’ my hearties.�</p>
+
+<p>“Did you think they would fail to accept?�
+teased Miss Sallie. “Look at the foolish young
+things! They have all fallen in love with the
+countess at first sight, and can hardly wait for
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_52'></a>52</span>
+one o’clock to arrive. But I will send our acceptance
+at once, so as not to keep the man waiting.�
+Miss Stuart hurried off to the writing
+room of the hotel.</p>
+
+<p>So the girls were alone when they were joined
+on the piazza by Mrs. De Lancey Smythe and
+Marian.</p>
+
+<p>“Good morning, my dears,� said Mrs. De
+Lancey Smythe, with an attempt at affability.
+“Isn’t it delightful after the storm?�</p>
+
+<p>“Very,� answered Ruth, rather shortly.</p>
+
+<p>“Have you seen dear Maud and her father
+this morning?� pursued Mrs. Smythe, ignoring
+Ruth’s lack of cordiality.</p>
+
+<p>“No,� replied Ruth. “Have you?�</p>
+
+<p>“I saw them a few minutes ago, and they were
+engaged in a family discussion,� replied the
+older woman. “Such discussions are most disagreeable
+to me. Marian and I never have
+them. For some stupid reason, Mr. Warren is
+opposed to his daughter’s receiving attentions
+from the Count de Sonde. I have assured him
+that I know the count well. He belongs to an
+old and illustrious family. But tell me, what is
+your opinion of the Countess Sophia von Stolberg?
+Do you think she is an impostor?�</p>
+
+<p>“An impostor!� exclaimed Ruth indignantly.
+“I think she is simply perfect. I never met any
+one in my life who impressed me so much.�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_53'></a>53</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>“Beware, my dear, that your feelings do not
+run away with you,� warned Mrs. De Lancey
+Smythe with asperity. “I have heard rumors,
+since I saw you last night. There are suspicious
+circumstances connected with this countess.
+She may very possibly be an impostor.�</p>
+
+<p>“Who told you such a dreadful falsehood?�
+demanded Ruth. She was almost choking with
+anger. But Barbara had joined her. Bab’s
+firm fingers on Ruth’s arm warned her to be
+careful.</p>
+
+<p>“The man who told me is in a position to
+know the truth. He is a clever man of the
+world, a foreigner himself,� replied Mrs.
+Smythe triumphantly.</p>
+
+<p>“I am afraid I cannot credit his story,� replied
+Ruth, with more composure. “I cannot
+forget that we accepted the countess’s hospitality
+yesterday and we are to have the pleasure
+of accepting more of it to-day. My father and
+Aunt Sallie, and we four girls, are to have
+luncheon with the Countess von Stolberg and
+Madame de Villiers.�</p>
+
+<p>Ruth drew Barbara’s arm through hers. They
+moved away from Mrs. De Lancey Smythe.</p>
+
+<p>But Mrs. De Lancey Smythe had said her say
+and left a sting, and she smiled maliciously as
+the two girls walked away.</p>
+
+<p>“I can’t endure that woman, Barbara,�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_54'></a>54</span>
+exclaimed Ruth. “I’ll lose my head completely
+if she attacks our beautiful countess again.�</p>
+
+<p>“She is too disagreeable to notice,� answered
+Bab vehemently. “Here comes Maud Warren.
+Shall we ask her to take a walk with us along
+the Beach?�</p>
+
+<p>“I suppose so,� assented Ruth, whose enthusiasm
+had somewhat cooled over night. “I
+don’t want her. But we ought to be polite.�</p>
+
+<p>The two girls greeted Maud Warren cordially.
+There was a discontented line across that
+young woman’s brow, and an angry look in her
+pale blue eyes.</p>
+
+<p>“I am looking for the count,� she declared
+defiantly.</p>
+
+<p>The girls instinctively knew that Maud was
+disobeying her father. Mr. Warren had just
+finished lecturing Maud and had commanded
+that she cut the count’s acquaintance.</p>
+
+<p>“I saw the count a few minutes ago. He was
+starting off with his friend for a walk,� explained
+Bab gently. “Won’t you take a stroll
+on the beach with us, Maud? It is such a perfect
+morning.�</p>
+
+<p>“Oh, do come, Maud,� begged Ruth, with a
+charming, cordial smile. Ruth’s sweet nature
+was again asserting itself.</p>
+
+<p>“Yes, do,� cried Mollie and Grace, who had
+just joined the little group of girls.
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_55'></a>55</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>Maud’s face softened. “You are awfully
+nice,� she said. Maud was a little taken aback
+by so much friendliness. She had been spoiled
+all her life, and had never had real friends
+among young girls. People had thought her
+disagreeable and overbearing, and she had held
+herself aloof, displaying a degree of hauteur
+that admitted of no friendship.</p>
+
+<p>“Let’s get our hats and go immediately. It
+will soon be time to go in bathing,� suggested
+Bab. Barbara never missed a swim if she
+could help it.</p>
+
+<p>“All right, old water dog,� Ruth agreed.
+“Meet us on the piazza looking toward the
+ocean, Maud. We will be back in ten minutes.�</p>
+
+<p>The girls were back on the piazza at the appointed
+time. Maud was there. But with her
+were Marian De Lancey Smythe, and the Count
+de Sonde.</p>
+
+<p>“What a nuisance!� exclaimed Ruth under
+her breath. But there was nothing to be done;
+therefore the girls decided to accept this undesired
+addition to their number with the best
+possible grace.</p>
+
+<p>The entire party started down the avenue of
+palms toward the ocean.</p>
+
+<p>The “Automobile Girls� were thrilled with
+the beauty of the great stretch of blue water.
+Marian De Lancey Smythe, too, had a soul
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_56'></a>56</span>
+stirring within her. It had been choked by the
+false principles and ostentations that her
+mother had taught her. But Marian was not
+a stupid girl. Her wits had been sharpened
+by years of managing and deceit. She had the
+sense to see the difference between herself and
+the four sweet, unaffected “Automobile Girls,�
+and she knew the difference was in their favor.</p>
+
+<p>Under her fashionable exterior a really simple
+heart beat in Marian’s bosom, and she was
+filled with a wild desire to shake off her mother’s
+despotic rule, and for once let her real self come
+to the surface. As she strolled moodily along
+beside Barbara she reflected bitterly that while
+others had been given all, she had received
+nothing.</p>
+
+<p>She contrasted the hand to mouth existence
+that she and her mother led with the full, cheerful
+life of the “Automobile Girls,� and a wave
+of shame swept over her at the deceptions and
+subterfuges that were second nature to her
+mother, which she felt reasonably certain that
+no really honest person would practise. Her
+life was a sham and a mockery, and behind it
+was the ever present fear that her mother would
+some day overstep all bounds, and do something
+to bring the crushing weight of the law
+down upon them. There were so many things
+that Marian did not understand. Her mother
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_57'></a>57</span>
+never said more about her affairs than was absolutely
+necessary. She only knew that they
+were always poor, always struggling to appear
+to be that which they were not. She had been
+commanded to dissemble, to lie, to do without
+a murmur, whatever her mother asked of her,
+and her better self sometimes rose in a revolt
+against her mother, that was almost hatred.</p>
+
+<p>As she walked gloomily along wrapped in her
+own bitter reflections, she sighed deeply. Bab
+who was walking with her glanced quickly at
+Marian, then with one of her swift impulses,
+she put out her hand and clasped that of the
+other girl.</p>
+
+<p>“Are you unhappy, Marian?� she asked.</p>
+
+<p>“No,� replied Marian. But her emotions got
+the better of her and she choked back her sobs
+with an angry gulp. Then feeling the pressure
+of Bab’s sympathetic hand she said
+brokenly, “I mean, yes. At least, I don’t know
+exactly what is the matter with me. I think
+I am homesick—homesick for the things I have
+never had, and never expect to have.�</p>
+
+<p>“I’m sorry,� said Bab, still holding Marian’s
+hand, yet looking away, so she should not see
+Marian’s rebellious tears. “But why do you
+think you won’t have the things you want? If
+you keep on wishing for a thing the wish is sure
+to come true some day.�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_58'></a>58</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>Marian’s set face softened at these words.
+“Do you really think that?� she asked. “Do
+you suppose that things will ever be any different
+for me? Oh, if you only knew how I hate
+all this miserable pretense.�</p>
+
+<p>“Why, Marian!� exclaimed Bab. “What is
+the matter? I had no idea you were so unhappy.�</p>
+
+<p>“Of course you hadn’t,� replied Marian.
+“Because I never dare let any one know my real
+feelings. I never have hated my life as I do
+since I have known you girls. You are just
+girls. That’s the beauty of it, and you have
+folks who love you and want you to stay girls
+and not ape grown up people all the time. I’d
+like to wear my hair in one braid, and run and
+romp and have a good time generally. Look at
+me. I look as though I were twenty-two at
+least, and I’m only seventeen. I have to wear
+my hair on top of my head and pretend to be
+something remarkable when I want to be just
+a plain every day girl. It’s intolerable. I won’t
+stand it any longer. I don’t see why I was ever
+born.�</p>
+
+<p>“Poor Marian,� soothed Bab. “Don’t feel
+so badly. It will all come right some day. Let
+me be your friend. I believe I understand just
+how you feel. Perhaps your mother may——�</p>
+
+<p>“Don’t speak of my mother!� ejaculated the
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_59'></a>59</span>
+girl passionately. “Sometimes I hate her. Do
+you know, Barbara, I often wonder if she is
+really my mother. Away back in my mind
+there is the memory of another face. I don’t
+know whether I have only dreamed it, or where
+it came from, but I like to think of that sweet
+face as belonging to my mother.�</p>
+
+<p>Bab looked at Marian in a rather startled
+way. What a strange girl she was, to be sure.
+Suppose Mrs. De Lancey Smythe were not her
+mother. Suppose that Marian had been stolen
+when a baby. Bab’s active brain immediately
+began to spin a web of circumstances about
+Marian Smythe.</p>
+
+<p>“Marian,� she began. But she never finished
+for just then a piercing cry rang out.</p>
+
+<p>Nursemaids with children began running
+along the sands. Another nurse had run out
+into the water. She was wildly waving her arms
+and pointing to a small object well out on the
+waves. Barbara saw it for just an instant.
+Then it disappeared. She and Marian both
+recognized what it was. A child’s curly head
+had risen to the surface of the water, and then
+had sunk out of sight.</p>
+
+<p>Quick as a flash Barbara kicked off her white
+canvas pumps and threw hat and linen coat on
+the ground.</p>
+
+<p>Extending her hands before her, she ran out
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_60'></a>60</span>
+into the water. Marian ran blindly after her.
+The Count de Sonde was the only man near
+that part of the beach. He was behaving in a
+most remarkable manner. Entirely forgetful of
+the blood of scores of noble ancestors that ran
+in his veins, he had taken to his heels and his
+small figure was seen flying up the beach away
+from the water.</p>
+
+<p>However, Bab was not thinking of aid. She
+made straight for the little head, which rose for
+the second time above the waves.</p>
+
+<p>When Barbara reached the spot where she
+had last seen the child’s head she dived beneath
+the surface of the water.</p>
+
+<p>Marian thought that Barbara, too, had lost
+her life. She began wringing her hands and
+calling for help. In her excitement she had
+waded to her neck in the water and was clinging
+to the life rope. She did not know how to
+swim, but she had a wild idea that she ought to
+follow in Barbara’s lead, and now she clung to
+the rope and anxiously watched Barbara’s
+movements. Bab in the meantime, had dived
+into deep water and was groping blindly for
+the little figure. At last she seized the child by
+the arm and with lungs bursting rose to the
+top of the water, when suddenly she was struck
+a fearful and unlooked for blow. She had not
+reckoned with the life line and with the little
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_61'></a>61</span>
+fellow in her arms had come in violent contact
+with it. She reeled and would have gone under
+but a hand grasped her firmly by the arm and
+pulled her from under the treacherous rope.
+She had just sense enough to hand the child
+over to Marian Smythe and seize the rope herself.
+Then she filled her exhausted lungs with
+the fresh air.</p>
+
+<p>On the shore Grace and Mollie were running
+up and down the sands imploring some one to
+save Bab. Ruth wished to rush out into the
+water. But she knew she could not reach the
+two exhausted girls.</p>
+
+<p>As for the Count de Sonde, he was nowhere
+to be seen, while Maud Warren stood on the
+shore helplessly wringing her hands.</p>
+
+<p>In a short time the beach was crowded with
+people. Marian and Bab had brought the little
+boy in to his nurse. The hotel physician
+soon took the nurse and the baby both away,
+and the crowd followed them.</p>
+
+<p>Bab flung herself down in the warm sand.
+Mollie, Ruth and Grace hung over her anxiously.</p>
+
+<p>“I’ll just rest here a moment,� Bab said
+faintly. “I want to get my breath. But do see
+to Marian. She is a brave girl. She saved my
+life. I struck against the life rope, and would
+have gone under with the little boy had she not
+caught my arm and held me up.�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_62'></a>62</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>“You dear, dear girl,� said Mollie with a half
+sob. “How splendid of you!�</p>
+
+<p>Then the three girls surrounded Marian and
+hugged her until they were almost as wet as she
+was.</p>
+
+<p>“I didn’t do anything remarkable,� she
+averred, almost shyly. “I went into the water
+after Barbara before I realized what I was
+doing. I just had to catch hold of her arm, because
+I saw that she was going under. You
+girls are perfectly sweet to me and I am happier
+to-day than I’ve ever been before.�</p>
+
+<p>“Marian,� called the cold tones of her
+mother. “Go up to the hotel at once and change
+your clothing. Your appearance is disgraceful.�</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. De Lancey Smythe stalked majestically
+over to the little group, frowning her displeasure.
+“Whatever possessed you and Miss
+Thurston to rush madly into the water after a
+child you never saw before?� she said to
+Marian, whose happy face had darkened at her
+mother’s first word. “Really, Marian, dear,
+you are at times past understanding.�</p>
+
+<p>“Mrs. Smythe,� said Barbara coldly. “We
+could never have been so heartless as to stand
+on the shore and wait for some one else to rescue
+that little child. I felt it my duty to make
+some effort and I am sure that Marian did.�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_63'></a>63</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>“Really, Miss Thurston,� retorted Mrs.
+Smythe, “I addressed my remark to Marian.�</p>
+
+<p>“Yes,� said Bab, her eyes flashing, “but you
+included me in it, therefore I felt justified in
+answering it.�</p>
+
+<p>For a moment there was a tense silence. Bab
+stood looking composedly into the angry eyes
+of Mrs. De Lancey Smythe. Then Ruth said,
+with superb indifference. “Oh, come on, girls,
+don’t waste your whole morning, here. Bab,
+you’ll catch cold. Hurry right up to the hotel
+with Marian. Good-bye, Marian, we’ll see you
+later.�</p>
+
+<p>Utterly ignoring Mrs. Smythe, Ruth turned
+on her heel and accompanied by Grace and
+Mollie continued the stroll along the beach.</p>
+
+<p>“My I’d hate to meet Mrs. De Lancey Smythe
+alone on a dark night,� remarked Mollie, with
+a giggle. “Didn’t she look ready to scratch
+Bab’s eyes out, though.�</p>
+
+<p>“She found her match in Mistress Barbara,�
+observed Grace. “She can’t intimidate our
+Bab.�</p>
+
+<p>Bab hurried along the beach toward the hotel
+full of sympathy for the luckless Marian, and
+vowing within herself to be a true friend to the
+girl who had been cheated of her girlhood.
+</p>
+<div class='chapter'>
+<span class="pagenum pncolor"><a id="page_64"></a>64</span>
+<a id='chVI'></a>
+<p class='cln0'>CHAPTER VI</p>
+<p class='cln1'>THE COUNTESS SOPHIA</p>
+</div>
+
+
+<p>To be at luncheon with a real countess?
+What bliss!</p>
+
+<p>Not one of the “Automobile Girls�
+doubted, for an instant, the genuineness of the
+Countess Sophia von Stolberg. Mrs. De Lancey
+Smythe’s calumnies carried no weight with the
+“Automobile Girls.�</p>
+
+<p>To-day the countess was more gentle, more
+beautiful than she had seemed at first. And
+there was less formality in her manner.</p>
+
+<p>Mollie, who sat at her left at the luncheon
+table, quite lost the feeling of awe that had
+taken possession of her the afternoon before.</p>
+
+<p>Opposite the countess, at the other end of
+the table, sat the formidable Madame de Villiers,
+the old lady with the hooked nose and the
+bird-like eyes. She, too, seemed to feel more
+amiable, for she watched her young guests with
+an amused smile.</p>
+
+<p>“Do you know what I believe Madame de
+Villiers was thinking all the time we were at
+luncheon?� Ruth asked her friends, when they
+were discussing their visit the following day.
+“The amused look on her face seemed to say:
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_65'></a>65</span>
+‘This is just another of the countess’s pranks,
+asking these strangers to luncheon. But if they
+amuse her—why not!’�</p>
+
+<p>Madame de Villiers, however, found Miss Sallie
+Stuart much to her liking. Perhaps this was
+because Miss Sallie was not in the least afraid
+of her, nor inclined to shrink from her, as so
+many people did.</p>
+
+<p>The story of the morning’s adventure had
+been told. The countess leaned admiringly over
+the great bunch of yellow daffodils in the centre
+of the table and smiled at Bab. Barbara’s
+brown curls were still damp from their recent
+wetting. “Were there no men on that part of
+the beach when the baby was drowning? Why
+did you have to risk your life in that way?� the
+countess asked.</p>
+
+<p>“There were no men near,� Ruth replied.
+“You see, it was very early in the morning.
+Only the nurse girls and children were abroad.�</p>
+
+<p>“There was one man present!� exclaimed
+Mollie, with a spark of anger in her usually
+gentle blue eyes. “But he was a coward and
+ran away.�</p>
+
+<p>“The Count de Sonde! Oh, yes,� continued
+Ruth, “I had forgotten him.�</p>
+
+<p>The countess look startled.</p>
+
+<p>“The Count de Sonde!� she repeated in a
+puzzled fashion. “He refused to help? He ran
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_66'></a>66</span>
+away?� An expression of incredulity crossed
+her face.</p>
+
+<p>“He most certainly did run,� Mollie declared
+firmly. “I almost fell on my knees to beg him
+to save Bab. But he did not even take time to
+refuse me. He simply ran away, so as to live to
+fight another day, I suppose.�</p>
+
+<p>“The Count de Sonde!� the young countess
+returned. “Ah, yes, he is the young Frenchman
+who was here yesterday. Then he is not
+a friend of yours?�</p>
+
+<p>“Certainly not, Countess Sophia,� explained
+Mr. Stuart. “The young man is only a chance
+acquaintance, whom my friend Mr. Warren
+rescued from a difficulty yesterday.�</p>
+
+<p>“I, also, am but a chance acquaintance,�
+smiled the young countess.</p>
+
+<p>“Only you were the rescuer, and he was the
+rescued!� exclaimed Mollie quickly, looking
+fondly at her pretty hostess, who pressed her
+hand under the table.</p>
+
+<p>“We are not in the least interested in the
+count,� Ruth remarked bluntly. “We are civil
+to him because we are trying to help some one.�</p>
+
+<p>The countess looked puzzled.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Stuart laughed. “My dear Countess,�
+he explained, “the ‘Automobile Girls’ are not
+exactly Knights of the Round Table, but they
+have a kind of league of their own. I think
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_67'></a>67</span>
+they have formed a sort of Helping Hand Society.
+They have a pretty good theory that
+there is no reason why boys should enjoy all
+the adventures and thrilling experiences. If
+there is anything to be done, why, do it! Isn’t
+that the motto, girls? I think the countess
+would be amazed if she knew what you have
+been through in the way of adventure. Now,
+they have undertaken to look after a misguided
+maiden. And I think they are rather piling on
+the horrors in her case.�</p>
+
+<p>“Now, Father, you’ve no right to tease,� protested
+Ruth. “You are the very person who
+made us promise to stand by Maud Warren
+through thick and thin.�</p>
+
+<p>“So I did,� agreed Mr. Stuart. “But I had
+no romantic notions that Maud was to be protected
+from the Count de Sonde. I only consented
+to have you persuade Maud from certain
+undesirable associates by showing her how
+much more desirable you are. Now, I plainly
+see the object of your protective association has
+changed.�</p>
+
+<p>“Now, Father, you are teasing,� exclaimed
+his daughter.</p>
+
+<p>“How can you accuse me of any such thing?�
+replied Mr. Stuart, his eyes twinkling.</p>
+
+<p>“He always teases,� Ruth explained to the
+countess and Madame de Villiers. “It’s
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_68'></a>68</span>
+second nature to him. He can’t help it. But putting
+aside all jesting, I am going to speak very
+plainly about several things. I am sorry to be
+obliged to backbite, but really and truly we
+don’t like Mrs. De Lancey Smythe. She is the
+most disagreeable person we know, and we are
+going to try gradually to wean Maud Warren
+from her. Maud thinks that she is wonderful
+and a great society leader, but I think if one
+made careful inquiry into the matter, one would
+find her name among those missing from the
+social world.�</p>
+
+<p>“Ruth, my dear,� expostulated Miss Stuart.
+“You are entirely too impetuous!�</p>
+
+<p>“Do allow her to go on, Miss Stuart,� begged
+Madame de Villiers. “She is one after my own
+heart. It is refreshing to find some one who is
+not afraid to speak plainly.�</p>
+
+<p>“Well,� continued Ruth, highly elated at receiving
+the approbation of the stern old woman.
+“We are going to checkmate Mrs. D. L. S. at
+her own game. She is trying to throw Maud
+in line with her own schemes. Enter the ‘Automobile
+Girls.’ Exit the enemy. The first
+battle was fought on the beach this morning,
+and the situation was strongly defended to the
+last word by General Barbara Thurston.�</p>
+
+<p>“What do you mean, Ruth?� interrupted her
+father gravely.
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_69'></a>69</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>Then Ruth launched forth with the account
+of Mrs. De Lancey Smythe’s rudeness to Bab
+and Bab’s reply. “Marian is all right,� concluded
+Ruth, “but her mother is an entirely
+different proposition.�</p>
+
+<p>“So it would seem,� murmured the countess
+thoughtfully. “But suppose the count is really
+an eligible person, and has fallen in love, in
+earnest with Miss Warren, and suppose that
+Miss Warren truly loves him, what then? Would
+Mr. Warren still be opposed to the marriage?�</p>
+
+<p>“I don’t know,� replied Ruth doubtfully.
+“But you see Maud is a girl, and Mr. Warren
+feels that she is too young to know her own
+mind. He is afraid that the count’s title has
+dazzled her, and he does not like foreigners. He
+thinks we may be able to disabuse Maud of
+some of her sentimental ideas. Last night we
+four girls organized a secret society for the
+suppression of fortune hunters, and we thought
+perhaps you might help us——�</p>
+
+<p>“Ruth, my dear child!� protested Miss Sallie
+greatly shocked.</p>
+
+<p>But old Madame de Villiers’ eyes gleamed
+with amusement.</p>
+
+<p>“Indeed, I shall be most happy to become a
+member of your secret society,� rejoined the
+countess. “How exciting! It must be a real
+secret society, if we are to be serious. Let me
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_70'></a>70</span>
+see? We should arrange signals and plan a
+campaign. If I am right, Miss Maud Warren
+needs to be treated very delicately and carefully,
+or she is likely to rebel. Is this not so?�</p>
+
+<p>“That is just what we agreed last night,�
+Ruth confessed.</p>
+
+<p>“But how are we going to prove that Count de
+Sonde is a fortune-hunter?� argued Mollie.
+“For all we know, he may be immensely rich
+as well as illustrious.�</p>
+
+<p>“Oh, we shall have to prove that the count is
+not really in love with Mademoiselle Warren,�
+answered the countess, pinching Mollie’s cheek.
+She was entering into their little game with a
+curious zest.</p>
+
+<p>“Or you might prove that he is not a count,�
+interposed Madame de Villiers, with an inscrutable
+expression on her grim old face.</p>
+
+<p>“Do you believe that he is an impostor,
+Madame de Villiers?� inquired Miss Sallie.</p>
+
+<p>For a brief instant the countess’s eyes met
+those of Madame de Villiers.</p>
+
+<p>The old lady shrugged her shoulders and
+lifted her eyebrows in answer to Miss Sallie’s
+question: “The world is so full of impostors,
+and Europe so full of counts,� she said.</p>
+
+<p>The countess blushed hotly. There was an
+awkward silence.</p>
+
+<p>Miss Sallie was sorry she had spoken. But
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_71'></a>71</span>
+why should such an idle question cause annoyance?
+The young count was surely a stranger
+to her two hostesses. There was nothing to indicate
+that the young man was in earnest about
+Maud Warren. He had simply paid her casual
+attentions for the past few days.</p>
+
+<p>“Shall you and I become members of this
+secret society, Madame de Villiers?� inquired
+Miss Stuart, to divert the conversation. “I
+suppose we had better be content with the posts
+of confidential agents. Because I assure you
+there is no limit to what this society may do.�</p>
+
+<p>“And I should prefer to be scout, guardsman,
+or messenger,� agreed Mr. Stuart. “I,
+too, shrink from being an active member of such
+a vigorous organization.�</p>
+
+<p>“Then let us leave these faithless people behind,
+girls,� proposed the young countess.
+“Let us run away to the old boathouse and plan
+our campaign. We are not sure that we may
+safely confide to you our secret signals, our
+hand clasps and our code,� she protested to
+the older people.</p>
+
+<p>Madame de Villiers now led the way into the
+drawing room.</p>
+
+<p>But the young countess ran lightly out of the
+house, followed by her four girl guests. “We’ll
+arrange our secrets while our elders take their
+coffee on the balcony,� she suggested.
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_72'></a>72</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>When the countess and the “Automobile
+Girls� had disappeared, Madame de Villiers
+smiled a little apologetically at Miss Stuart and
+her brother. “The countess is only a girl herself,�
+she explained. “Of course, she is several
+years older than your girls. Yet, in many
+ways, she is still simply a child.�</p>
+
+<p>“She is very beautiful and charming,� replied
+Miss Sallie cordially. “You see how she
+has fascinated our girls.�</p>
+
+<p>“So she does everyone,� replied Madame de
+Villiers, shaking her head somewhat sadly.</p>
+
+<p>In the meantime the five conspirators were
+absorbed in devising their signals. They were
+only joking, of course. Yet, somehow, the
+young countess entered so seriously into their
+make-believe that the girls almost forgot they
+were not in earnest. One thing they conscientiously
+agreed upon—Maud Warren was to be
+constantly invited to share their pleasures with,
+or without, her objectionable friends.</p>
+
+<p>“Must the Count de Sonde be permitted always
+to come along with us and Maud?� Grace
+queried. She had been taking little part in the
+conversation, for she had been industriously
+writing down a list of signals for their new organization.</p>
+
+<p>“We must have him, if Maud won’t come
+without him,� replied Ruth. “Maud must be
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_73'></a>73</span>
+won over to our side by flattering attentions.
+Suppose we start out being friends with her, by
+having another luncheon at our hotel. Will
+you come, Countess?�</p>
+
+<p>The countess shook her head gently. “I am
+sorry,� she replied a little soberly. “I—� she
+hesitated a moment. “I fear you will think
+me rude. But I have made it a rule never to
+appear at the hotels. I will do anything else.
+Suppose we give a picnic? Is not that what
+you call it in English?�</p>
+
+<p>“A picnic would be delightful,� agreed Ruth
+politely. But she could not help wondering why
+the countess was not willing “to appear,� as
+she expressed it, at the hotels.</p>
+
+<p>“The signals are ready!� cried Grace.
+“There are two handshakes. The one which denotes
+danger is like this: Press the forefinger
+of one hand into the palm of the other person’s
+hand when you shake hands.�</p>
+
+<p>“That is very clever!� exclaimed the countess.
+She clasped Mollie’s little hand. “Now,
+Mademoiselle Mollie, when you feel my finger
+press your palm like this, you will know that
+I am greatly in need of your help.�</p>
+
+<p>“A white ribbon bow worn on the left
+shoulder, means that a secret meeting must be
+called at once!� Grace declaimed.</p>
+
+<p>“And a blue ribbon bow, worn instead of a
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_74'></a>74</span>
+white one, proclaims: ‘I have important information
+to communicate,’� added the Countess
+Sophia. “But I should have a special signal
+by which to summon you. Let me see. I
+must be able to signal you from a distance. If
+I fasten a red flag to one of these posts in the
+day time you must know that I want to see you
+very much.�</p>
+
+<p>“But what about a night signal?� asked
+Grace, who was taking the signals very seriously.</p>
+
+<p>The countess laughed. “If ever you should
+happen to see a bright light shining in the tower
+of my villa, come to me at once. I shall be in
+great danger. Now, is not that exciting?� she
+cried, clasping her hands and smiling at the little
+company.</p>
+
+<p>At this moment there came a sound of oars
+dipping in the water. A boat glided from
+under the pavilion, which was built out over the
+water. The boat must have been hugging the
+shore until it reached the boathouse. Then it
+made for the open water. In the boat was one
+man. And immediately the countess and the
+four “Automobile Girls� recognized him. He
+was the Frenchman, Monsier Duval!</p>
+
+<p>“I wonder if he has been eavesdropping?�
+asked Ruth indignantly.</p>
+
+<p>“Oh well, he has heard nothing but
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_75'></a>75</span>
+make-believe,� the countess replied lightly, as she led
+her guests back to the villa.</p>
+<div class='chapter'>
+<a id='chVII'></a>
+<p class='cln0'>CHAPTER VII</p>
+<p class='cln1'>TEA IN THE COCOANUT GROVE</p>
+</div>
+
+
+<p>Their beloved red automobile, companion
+in so many adventures and faithful
+friend in time of need, did not accompany
+the “Automobile Girls� to Palm
+Beach. But Mr. Stuart engaged another larger
+motor car with a chauffeur to run it, as soon as
+he arrived at the famous southern resort. He
+preferred Ruth to have a chauffeur at her command
+in case she needed him.</p>
+
+<p>There was room in the new automobile for
+ten persons, and Mr. Stuart, Miss Sallie, the
+four “Automobile Girls,� the Countess Sophia
+and Madame de Villiers seated themselves in
+its cavernous depths. Then the car spun out
+along the famous Shell Road, lined on each side
+with the tall, delicate yucca plants. A fragrant
+southern breeze fanned the faces of the happy
+party. The sunlight was dazzling, the sky a
+deep blue. All about were masses of tropical
+vegetation that glittered in the sunshine.</p>
+
+<p>“This place is truly heavenly,� exclaimed
+the Countess Sophia von Stolberg. She leaned
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_76'></a>76</span>
+back in the automobile and closed her eyes.
+“How could one help being happy, surrounded
+by all this beauty? I am indeed very happy to-day.
+Are you not happy, Cousine?� she murmured,
+taking Madame de Villiers’s hand and
+looking at her with a tender, loving expression.
+The older woman’s stern face softened.</p>
+
+<p>“Very happy, my dear,� she declared. “This
+is not a place to remember one’s troubles.�</p>
+
+<p>The countess’s face clouded at the word
+“troubles.� She began to say something in
+German, but checked herself. She was far too
+well-bred to speak any language but English
+before her new friends.</p>
+
+<p>“Yes; this is a small sized heaven,� agreed
+Bab. “A kind of oasis in a desert, for over
+there are the Everglades.�</p>
+
+<p>“And what are the Everglades?� inquired
+the countess.</p>
+
+<p>“The guide-book says they are trackless
+jungle,� explained Bab. “They are full of wild
+animals; wild cats, and panthers, and deer.
+They have poisonous snakes in them, too.
+Very few white men ever venture in the Everglades,
+but the Indians have trails through
+them. They often kill deer in the jungle and
+sell them at the hotel.�</p>
+
+<p>“It would not be pleasant to be lost in such
+a place,� suggested Mollie. She was thinking
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_77'></a>77</span>
+of her own experience when she was lost in the
+forest in the Berkshire Hills.</p>
+
+<p>“And it would not be easy to find you in the
+Everglades either, little sister,� rejoined Bab.
+“So please beware! Never go into the Everglades
+alone.�</p>
+
+<p>“Oh, don’t worry,� laughed Mollie. “Being
+lost once was enough for me.�</p>
+
+<p>“If you ever do disappear, Mademoiselle
+Mollie, the secret society will never rest until
+it finds you. We must be very faithful to each
+other, dear fellow members?� laughed the
+countess.</p>
+
+<p>“I am sure we agree to that,� declared Ruth.</p>
+
+<p>Walking along the road ahead of them, Barbara
+espied two figures.</p>
+
+<p>“Do you know,� she demanded, “I believe
+those two people just in front of us are Maud
+Warren and her count.�</p>
+
+<p>It really was Maud loitering along the road
+accompanied by the count.</p>
+
+<p>“Stop our car, Robert,� ordered Miss Sallie.</p>
+
+<p>Maud explained that her motor car had
+broken down some distance up the road. She
+and the count had decided to walk on. They
+hoped to be picked up by friends.</p>
+
+<p>“Do you mean you were out motoring alone
+with the Count de Sonde?� inquired Miss Stuart
+severely.
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_78'></a>78</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>“Why not?� answered Maud, looking insolently
+at Miss Sallie.</p>
+
+<p>“Ah it is in this free America that one needs
+no chaperons,� said Madame de Villiers innocently,
+but with a gleam of mischief in her eyes.</p>
+
+<p>Maud made no reply. Two angry spots
+glowed in her cheeks.</p>
+
+<p>The countess now made up her mind to intercede.
+She did not wish Maud to fly into a rage.</p>
+
+<p>“I have had a visit from your friends, the
+‘Automobile Girls’, Miss Warren,� she said
+graciously. “Perhaps you will join them when
+they come to see me again.�</p>
+
+<p>Maud favored the countess with a chilly stare.</p>
+
+<p>Could it be that Mrs. De Lancey Smythe had
+been whispering tales about the countess in
+Maud’s ears? And had this stupid girl believed
+what she had heard? Ruth felt her heart
+thump with the embarrassment of the situation.
+What was Maud going to say? Strangely
+enough Madame de Villiers’ face held the same
+look of fear that Ruth’s did. Why should
+Madame de Villiers look frightened instead of
+angry?</p>
+
+<p>But Maud never uttered the insult her lips
+were trying to frame. Spoiled and undisciplined
+child that she was, when she turned her
+sneering face toward the countess the words
+suddenly failed her. For the first time Maud
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_79'></a>79</span>
+felt that money, after all, counted for little.
+There was something about this plainly dressed
+woman that suddenly made her feel mean and
+ashamed. Maud looked deep into the countess’s
+beautiful eyes, then answered with unaccustomed
+meekness. “Thank you so much. I
+should like to come to see you.�</p>
+
+<p>In the meantime naughty Mollie was taking
+a slight revenge upon the count.</p>
+
+<p>“You are quite athletic, are you not?� she
+asked him innocently, her baby blue eyes fastened
+on his.</p>
+
+<p>“I, athletic?� exclaimed the little count in
+surprise. “Not very, Mademoiselle. Why do
+you ask?�</p>
+
+<p>“Because you run so well,� Mollie answered,
+with a far-away look.</p>
+
+<p>“You refer to this morning, I perceive,
+Mademoiselle,� expostulated the count. “I do
+not swim; therefore I ran for help. But there
+was no danger. Your sister was never in deep
+water. Yet it was a most effective scene.
+Doubtless the young lady will enjoy being a
+heroine.�</p>
+
+<p>Mollie flushed. “Barbara would have been
+in danger if Marian had not helped to pull her
+and the child out of the water. And, by the
+way, Marian does not swim either.�</p>
+
+<p>“Ah, Mademoiselle Marian? I saw her
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_80'></a>80</span>
+later,� laughed the count. “How droll was
+her appearance and that of your sister also.�</p>
+
+<p>Mollie heartily disgusted with the little count
+turned her back on him.</p>
+
+<p>“Get into the motor car, both of you,� ordered
+Miss Sallie firmly.</p>
+
+<p>A few minutes later their automobile reached
+the entrance to the cocoanut grove.</p>
+
+<p>“Papa, let us stop here and have tea?� asked
+Ruth.</p>
+
+<p>“A good idea, Ruth,� agreed Mr. Stuart, giving
+the chauffeur the order.</p>
+
+<p>“I am very sorry,� interrupted the countess.
+“But I fear I cannot stop this afternoon.�</p>
+
+<p>“Oh, please do, Countess!� urged Ruth and
+her friends. Even Maud’s voice was heard to
+join in the general chorus.</p>
+
+<p>The countess hesitated. She looked at Madame
+de Villiers with questioning eyes. It was
+evident that the young countess also yearned
+for the pleasure of drinking tea under the
+cocoanut trees. Madame de Villiers shrugged
+her shoulders. She said something softly, so
+that no one else could hear. The countess
+dropped her white chiffon veil down over her
+face.</p>
+
+<p>“After all, I cannot resist your invitation,
+Mr. Stuart,� the young woman agreed. “But
+may I ask you not to stay long?�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_81'></a>81</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>Presently Mr. Stuart’s party was seated
+around a large, rustic table in the beautiful
+cocoanut grove. Hundreds of other people,
+clad in white and light clothes, were seated
+at other tables. In the distance a band played.
+During the intermissions the listeners could
+hear the twittering and singing of multitudes
+of birds, which also sojourn for the winter at
+Palm Beach.</p>
+
+<p>The countess was the object of many glances
+from the people near her, although she had not
+lifted the heavy chiffon veil from her face. She
+was a woman of rarely beautiful presence.
+There was something regal in the set of her
+small head on her graceful shoulders. Her
+gown and hat were extremely plain and she
+wore no jewels; but an atmosphere surrounded
+the lovely countess like an aura of sunlight,
+Ruth thought. She was very gentle and sweet,
+though there was something about her that suggested
+she could be equally stern if the situation
+required it. Ruth hoped never to incur
+her displeasure.</p>
+
+<p>When tea was served the countess was obliged
+to throw back her veil.</p>
+
+<p>Madame de Villiers looked at her disapprovingly.
+Then the old woman cast hurried glances
+about her, but was apparently satisfied.</p>
+
+<p>As for the young countess, she took in a deep
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_82'></a>82</span>
+breath of the warm, soft air laden with the scent
+of the orange blossoms. She let her eyes
+wander over the grove and smiled as a burst of
+music floated across to her.</p>
+
+<p>“I am fascinated, enchanted!� she exclaimed.
+“Mr. Stuart, I thank you for the pleasure of
+this afternoon.�</p>
+
+<p>There was always a slight formality in the
+young countess’s manner which kept people at
+a distance.</p>
+
+<p>“Do not thank me, Countess,� protested Mr.
+Stuart. “You and Madame de Villiers are conferring
+an honor upon us.�</p>
+
+<p>“Madame de Villiers and I are two lonely
+women,� continued the countess. “We have
+not seen the beauties of this place, except from
+our piazza. How exquisite this grove is!
+Truly, it is like paradise.�</p>
+
+<p>Again the young woman’s gaze swept the tea
+garden. Suddenly her face turned white. She
+bit her lips, and sat as if turned to stone. Her
+eyes were fastened on a group of three men at
+a nearby table. Madame de Villiers had not
+noticed them. The men had not yet noticed
+the Stuart’s guests.</p>
+
+<p>The countess dropped her veil quickly. Ruth
+and Mollie, sitting on each side of the countess,
+were the only members of the party who felt
+that something had happened, and they were
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_83'></a>83</span>
+wise enough to be absolutely silent. Only the
+girls’ eyes followed the direction of the countess’s.
+They, too, saw the three men, one of
+whom they recognized as Mr. Duval. The other
+two were strangers, foreign-looking men with
+waxed mustaches and light hair.</p>
+
+<p>All at once Mollie felt her hand seized convulsively
+under cover of the table. But the little
+girl was not prepared for the special mark
+of confidence that the countess was now to bestow
+on her. As Mollie held the countess’s
+hand in her own, she felt a tap, tap in the centre
+of her palm. Like a flash Mollie remembered.
+The countess had given her the danger
+signal they had agreed upon the day before.
+Mollie looked quickly over at Maud Warren.
+She presumed the signal indicated that there
+was something the matter with Maud. But
+Maud was sitting quietly between Barbara and
+Grace Carter.</p>
+
+<p>Then what could the countess mean? Could
+she be jesting? Mollie did not think so.
+Through the meshes of her white veil the face
+of the countess looked out very white and
+grave.</p>
+
+<p>Mollie’s heart was beating fast. What could
+she say? What must she do? Of one thing
+she now felt sure. The beautiful Countess
+Sophia von Stolberg was threatened with
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_84'></a>84</span>
+trouble. She should have all the aid that the
+“Automobile Girls� could give.</p>
+
+<p>“I understand,� Mollie now whispered back
+to her in a low voice. “What shall I do?�</p>
+
+<p>“I must leave the tea garden at once,� replied
+the countess quietly. “But I do not wish
+to be observed. Madame de Villiers must go
+with me, but I do not wish the party to break
+up. That would make us conspicuous.�</p>
+
+<p>“Ruth and I will go with you. Don’t be worried;
+we will go quietly. Wait, I must speak to
+her.�</p>
+
+<p>“Ruth,� Mollie spoke softly to her friend.
+“The countess wishes to go home without disturbing
+any one else. Shall we slip out with
+her, and see her home?�</p>
+
+<p>“Why, of course,� answered Ruth politely,
+although she was somewhat mystified.</p>
+
+<p>They were about to arise quietly from the
+table when they were interrupted. A waiter
+handed a note to Mr. Stuart. Mr. Stuart read it.
+His face turned very red.</p>
+
+<p>Now, if there was one thing in particular that
+Robert Stuart loathed it was an anonymous letter.
+The message he had just received was not
+signed, and it read:</p>
+
+<p>“Beware of the countess. She is an impostor.�</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Stuart crushed the paper in his hand.
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_85'></a>85</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>“Mr. Stuart,� said the low voice of the countess,
+just at this moment, “forgive my leaving
+so soon. But I must go at once. Mollie and
+Ruth are coming with me.� As the countess
+rose from her chair she glanced hastily at the
+three men at the table near them. These men
+had also risen. But they were not looking at
+the countess.</p>
+
+<p>The young woman started hurriedly toward
+the gate. Madame de Villiers quickly followed
+her. So did Ruth, Mollie and Mr. Stuart.</p>
+
+<p>“Please wait here until we come back for
+you,� Ruth said to her aunt.</p>
+
+<p>Monsieur Duval had now crossed the space
+intervening between the two tables. He had
+seated himself next to Miss Sallie. The other two
+foreigners were moving toward the gate.</p>
+
+<p>Ruth hurried on. She gave her order to the
+chauffeur. The man was soon cranking up the
+machine. The four women had taken their
+seats in the motor car. At this moment one of
+the strangers approached Mr. Stuart. The
+other took off his hat and bowed low to the
+countess. He spoke to her in German, but her
+reply was given in English. It was very plain.
+“I do not know you,� she said.</p>
+
+<p>The man spoke again. This time his manner
+was insolent. Madame de Villiers’s face grew
+dark with rage.
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_86'></a>86</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>“Hurry!� called Ruth to her chauffeur. Mr.
+Stuart sprang into the automobile.</p>
+
+<p>The machine sped on leaving the two strangers
+standing alone in the road.</p>
+
+<p>“Do not worry, Cousine,� the countess murmured
+in the course of their ride. “The man
+who spoke to me made a mistake. You will
+frighten our friends if you are so angry.�</p>
+
+<p>Madame de Villiers said nothing. But there
+was fire in her small shining black eyes. Her
+beaked nose looked as though it might peck at
+the next offender.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Stuart and the two girls left the countess
+and her companion at their villa. The two
+women were now composed. Indeed, the countess
+made Ruth and Mollie promise that the “Automobile
+Girls� would come to see her again
+the next day.</p>
+
+<p>Mollie and Ruth could not help puzzling over
+the countess as they rode back to the cocoanut
+grove. Mr. Stuart kept his own counsel.</p>
+
+<p>“I am certain there is some mystery about
+the countess,� Ruth avowed. “But, whatever
+the mystery is, the ‘Automobile Girls’ are on
+her side!�
+</p>
+<div class='chapter'>
+<span class="pagenum pncolor"><a id="page_87"></a>87</span>
+<a id='chVIII'></a>
+<p class='cln0'>CHAPTER VIII</p>
+<p class='cln1'>THE WARNING</p>
+</div>
+
+
+<p>In the meantime Mr. Duval was making himself
+exceedingly entertaining to Miss Sallie,
+Grace and Barbara in the tea garden.
+Maud and the Count de Sonde had withdrawn
+to a seat near the music, and were engrossed in
+a tête–à–tête.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Duval had traveled widely. He told his
+little audience about Chinese and Japanese tea
+gardens. He told tales of many lands and gave
+accounts of numerous adventures in which he
+had participated.</p>
+
+<p>Barbara and Grace listened fascinated. They
+hardly knew how the time passed. At last Mr.
+Stuart came back with Ruth and Mollie. Mr.
+Warren and Mrs. De Lancey Smythe had joined
+them, without Marian. Mr. Warren was looking
+for Maud. But Bab wondered how poor
+Marian had weathered the storm that must have
+broken when Mrs. De Lancey Smythe returned
+to the hotel that morning.</p>
+
+<p>“Where is Marian?� Ruth asked the widow
+abruptly, looking her straight in the eyes.</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. De Lancey Smythe’s eyes dropped before
+Ruth’s clear gaze. She twirled her
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_88'></a>88</span>
+parasol, looked annoyed then said frigidly: “Marian
+has a headache this afternoon.�</p>
+
+<p>“I trust the wetting she got this morning had
+nothing to do with it.�</p>
+
+<p>“Marian is an impulsive and reckless girl,�
+snapped her mother. “She is entirely too fond
+of disregarding all conventions.�</p>
+
+<p>“Has any one seen my daughter?� Mr.
+Warren’s deep voice was now heard above the
+hum of conversation. Mrs. De Lancey Smythe
+joined him and together they strolled over toward
+Maud and the count. Mrs. De Lancey
+Smythe seized this opportunity to say a few
+words in favor of the Count de Sonde, for it
+was evident that Mr. Warren had taken a violent
+dislike to the young man. Had some one
+persuaded the widow to make this appeal, or
+was she genuinely attracted by the young
+French nobleman?</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Stuart found himself agreeably surprised
+by Monsieur Duval. When the sun began
+to sink, and the tea drinkers prepared to
+return to their hotel, Mr. Duval occupied a seat
+in the Stuart automobile. Moreover, when he
+said good-bye on the hotel veranda, he carried
+with him two invitations. One was to dine with
+the Stuart party that very evening, the other,
+to go with them the next day on a picnic.</p>
+
+<p>No sooner was Bab out of the automobile
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_89'></a>89</span>
+than she determined to run up to Marian’s
+room. She knew the widow had not yet returned.
+Bab found the number of Marian’s
+room from the hotel clerk. Then she got in the
+elevator and went up to the top floor of the
+hotel.</p>
+
+<p>She knocked at a door in the middle of a long
+narrow passage, and a faint voice said: “Come
+in.�</p>
+
+<p>Bab entered a small bed room situated under
+the eaves of the hotel roof. There were three
+trunks in the tiny chamber which overlooked a
+court yard. The room was very close and hot.
+Marian was on the bed. She had cried herself
+to sleep. At Bab’s knock she opened her heavy
+eyes.</p>
+
+<p>“Why, Barbara!� she exclaimed. “It is awfully
+good of you to come up to see me, but
+Mama would have three fits if she knew you
+had seen this room. I am glad you have come,
+because I have something special to tell you.
+I——� Poor Marian hesitated and stopped.</p>
+
+<p>Barbara looked at her with questioning eyes.</p>
+
+<p>“I am afraid it is dreadfully disloyal of me
+to say another word.� Marian pressed her
+hands to her temples. “And I haven’t anything
+really definite to tell you. But, oh Barbara,
+I have a suspicion that something may
+happen soon! Will you remember that I had
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_90'></a>90</span>
+nothing to do with it, and that I mean to prevent
+it if I can?�</p>
+
+<p>Barbara, completely mystified, hardly knew
+what to reply.</p>
+
+<p>“Do you mean to warn me, Marian?� she
+asked her new friend. “Do you mean that
+something is going to happen that may concern
+us?�</p>
+
+<p>“No; not exactly,� Marian answered. Then
+she made an impetuous movement. “Please
+don’t question me,� she begged. “There is a
+reason why I dare not answer your questions.
+Forget what I have said, if you can. But for
+goodness’ sake, don’t mention to Mama that I
+have talked with you. I sometimes wonder
+what will become of us. Things can’t go on
+much longer. There is sure to be a grand
+crash. But please go, now, Barbara, Mama
+might come in and she would be very angry to
+find you here. I will see you to-night.�</p>
+
+<p>Barbara did not meet Mrs. De Lancey
+Smythe as she left Marian’s room, but she did
+run across her in the evening. The widow was
+hurrying through a side corridor in the hotel.
+She was wrapped in a long dark cloak, and appeared
+to be trying to leave the hotel by stealth.
+Bab drew back into one end of the corridor until
+the widow had disappeared, then she walked
+slowly out on the piazza. Marian’s warning
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_91'></a>91</span>
+was ringing in her ears. What was it that
+Marian had feared might happen, and why did
+her mother leave the hotel in that stealthy
+mysterious manner?</p>
+
+<p>On the piazza Bab found her own friends enjoying
+the beauty of the night. Maud and the
+Count de Sonde were talking just outside the
+group.</p>
+
+<p>“Do you know what I heard to-day?� remarked
+Mr. Stuart. “I understand that there
+is a swindler abroad at Palm Beach. A woman
+at that.�</p>
+
+<p>“You don’t mean it,� exclaimed Miss Sallie.
+“How dreadful!�</p>
+
+<p>“It seems,� continued Mr. Stuart, “that
+the detectives have been on the watch for her
+for some time, but so far she has been too clever
+for them. However, they have traced her to
+the Beach, but among the hundreds of tourists
+they have lost their clue. They do not despair
+of finding her yet, and a strict watch is being
+kept. She may be apprehended at any moment.�</p>
+
+<p>“Well, let’s hope she doesn’t attempt to
+swindle us,� commented Ruth. “By the way
+where is Monsieur Duval? He disappeared
+mysteriously the moment dinner was over.�</p>
+
+<p>“He had an engagement, and begged to be excused,�
+replied Mr. Stuart. “He said he would
+return in a little while.�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_92'></a>92</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>“Speaking of angels,� remarked Mollie,
+“here he comes now.�</p>
+
+<p>“Yes, and he’s towing along our pet aversion
+Mrs. D. L. Smythe,� said Grace.</p>
+
+<p>Bab looked toward the approaching pair.</p>
+
+<p>Monsier Duval and Mrs. De Lancey Smythe
+not yet aware that they were under the observation
+of the Stuart party, were deeply engaged
+in conversation.</p>
+
+<p>Barbara, watching closely, saw the Frenchman
+glance up, then he quickly dropped his
+eyes, and an expression of cautious cunning
+flitted over his face. His lips moved, the
+widow gave a half frightened look, then her expression
+of absorption changed to one of
+languid indifference. As the two neared the
+steps, from their demeanor, one would have concluded
+them to be mere acquaintances.</p>
+
+<p>What was the meaning of it all? Barbara
+wondered. And what secret understanding was
+there between those two people? Bab’s observant
+eye noted that Monsieur Duval carried
+over one arm the heavy cloak in which she had
+seen the widow wrapped a short time before.
+Had Mrs. De Lancey Smythe gone to meet the
+Frenchman, and, if so why did she not do so
+openly? Suppose Mrs. De Lancey Smythe were
+an impostor, with a game to play. Suppose
+Mr. Duval were—Barbara sighed impatiently.
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_93'></a>93</span>
+She was letting her imagination run riot. She
+resolved to dismiss the whole tiresome business
+from her mind, and enjoy herself.</p>
+
+<p>At that moment Maud Warren came languidly
+forward, the little count at her heels. “Miss
+Stuart,� she announced, “I have persuaded
+Papa to let me give a masked ball before we go
+back to New York. There are a number of
+smart people here at Palm Beach, and I want the
+count to see one of our American balls. We
+shall wear our masks until midnight, and then
+have a cotillon afterwards.�</p>
+
+<p>“That will be delightful, Maud!� replied
+Ruth. “And that reminds me. Father and I
+have never arranged about our picnic to-morrow.
+Don’t you think it would be fun to motor
+over to the big ostrich farm and have our
+luncheon there under the trees?�</p>
+
+<p>“Very delightful,� agreed Maud. “Don’t
+you think so, Count?�</p>
+
+<p>“I shall be charmed,� replied the little count,
+with an exaggerated bow.</p>
+
+<p>“But we shan’t,� whispered Mollie, naughtily
+to Barbara, under cover of general conversation.</p>
+
+<p>“In order to cure, we must endure,� returned
+Bab in an undertone. Whereupon the sisters
+both chuckled softly.</p>
+
+<p>At this juncture Marian appeared at the end
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_94'></a>94</span>
+of the piazza, and came slowly toward the
+group. Her eyes still showed traces of tears,
+and she looked ill and wretched.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Stuart greeted Marian kindly, and immediately
+invited her to Ruth’s picnic. And
+the invitation, of course, had to include Marian’s
+mother. “I am sorry you have been ill,�
+he said courteously, interrupting his conversation
+with Mr. Duval.</p>
+
+<p>Monsieur Duval’s eyes rested curiously on
+Marian. His look searched her face. “Perhaps
+the climate of Palm Beach does not agree
+with your health,� he suggested. “You do not
+like it here?�</p>
+
+<p>“It is not a question of what I like or dislike,
+Mr. Duval,� said Marian curtly.</p>
+
+<p>“But what do you prefer?� persisted the
+Frenchman with a shade of interest in his manner.</p>
+
+<p>“To mind my own affairs,� returned Marian
+coldly, turning her back on Monsieur Duval.
+</p>
+<div class='chapter'>
+<span class="pagenum pncolor"><a id="page_95"></a>95</span>
+<a id='chIX'></a>
+<p class='cln0'>CHAPTER IX</p>
+<p class='cln1'>A CASE OF MISTAKEN IDENTITY</p>
+</div>
+
+
+<p>Early the next afternoon the picnickers
+sallied forth in two automobiles,
+going first to the villa for the Countess
+Sophia and Madame de Villiers, then the
+two cars sped along the country road in the direction
+of the ostrich farm. Marian, Mollie,
+Mrs. De Lancey Smythe, Miss Stuart, Barbara,
+Maud and the Count de Sonde were in the foremost
+car, while the remainder of the party occupied
+the car first rented by Mr. Stuart, with
+Ruth as chauffeur.</p>
+
+<p>“Why don’t you start a song?� called Ruth
+over her shoulder. “Grace, sing something.
+Sing ‘My Old Kentucky Home.’�</p>
+
+<p>Grace sang the plaintive old melody in her
+sweet, high soprano voice.</p>
+
+<p>The Countess Sophia was enchanted. “What
+a charming song!� she declared. “What an
+exquisite melody. I have not heard it before.
+Is it not one of your old southern songs?�</p>
+
+<p>“Won’t you sing, Countess?� begged Mr.
+Stuart.</p>
+
+<p>The countess shook her head and smiled. “I
+do not care to sing alone,� she avowed. “But
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_96'></a>96</span>
+I am sure Monsieur Duval has the throat of a
+singer. Will you not sing a song of your country,
+Monsieur?�</p>
+
+<p>“If you will sing a song of your land in return,�
+answered the Frenchman quickly. Could
+it be that he, too, was curious to discover to a
+certainty the Countess Sophia von Stolberg’s
+nationality?</p>
+
+<p>The countess dropped her eyes under Mr. Duval’s
+steady gaze.</p>
+
+<p>“I do not sing without an accompaniment,
+Monsieur,� she said briefly.</p>
+
+<p>Madame de Villiers looked annoyed. Grace
+and Ruth wondered why the countess should
+be so secretive. She spoke French, German
+and English almost equally well. On her library
+table Ruth had discovered a number of Italian
+books.</p>
+
+<p>Monsieur Duval did not press his request.
+The Frenchman had very polished manners. Instead
+in a full baritone voice he sang the
+“Marseillaise.� His audience was profoundly
+stirred. “You are a patriot, Mr. Duval,� Mr.
+Stuart remarked.</p>
+
+<p>Monsieur Duval’s expression changed. But
+he said nothing. It was impossible to translate
+his peculiar look.</p>
+
+<p>“Do sing for us, Countess,� begged Grace
+later. “I know you have a wonderful voice.�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_97'></a>97</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>“Remember, you are to give us a song of
+your country,� Mr. Duval persisted.</p>
+
+<p>The countess made no reply to him. But in
+a voice clear as a bell she sang:</p>
+
+<div>
+<p style='margin:0 auto 0 4ex'>“Thou art like unto a flower.�</p>
+</div>
+
+<p>“But that is an English song,� expostulated
+Mr. Duval when the countess had finished.</p>
+
+<p>“Yes, but it was written first by a German
+poet: Du bist wie eine blume,� sang the countess,
+this time in German. “Shall I try it in
+French and Italian for you? The little song
+has been translated into every tongue.�</p>
+
+<p>It was evident to her listeners that the
+Countess Sophia von Stolberg was proficient in
+half a dozen languages.</p>
+
+<p>Grace thought she caught a glimpse of concealed
+amusement on Madame de Villiers’s face.
+But the stately old woman said nothing.</p>
+
+<p>The motor party had now arrived at the
+ostrich farm. Mollie, the countess and Bab ran
+on ahead. Ruth slipped her arm through Maud
+Warren’s. The count joined them, but Ruth
+did not withdraw her arm. Maud did not seem
+to mind Ruth’s “playing gooseberry.� Maud
+was really becoming fond of the “Automobile
+Girls.� It was plain, however, that the Count
+de Sonde had eyes only for Maud.
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_98'></a>98</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>The Count de Sonde, who wore high heeled
+shoes to make him look taller, walked with
+the two girls. He talked constantly, using his
+hands and shoulders to emphasize his remarks.</p>
+
+<p>“You see, Mademoiselle Maud,� he explained.
+“My parents died when I was a mere infant.
+Most of my life I have spent in Paris. I do not
+often go to the Chateau de Sonde. But I love
+dearly the home of my ancestors.�</p>
+
+<p>“How much land have you around your castle,
+Count?� asked Ruth.</p>
+
+<p>The count looked annoyed at the question.
+“It is a very large estate,� he answered
+vaguely.</p>
+
+<p>But Ruth was determined to secure definite
+information. “Is your chateau on a hill or in a
+valley?� she next inquired.</p>
+
+<p>The count shrugged his shoulders. “It is on
+the side of a mountain, overlooking a valley,�
+he declared.</p>
+
+<p>The picnic party had now arrived in front of
+the cages containing the ostriches. The great
+birds were strolling about in fine disdain.</p>
+
+<p>But Ruth’s mind dwelt on the Chateau de
+Sonde. She was frankly curious about it.
+“Have you ever visited the Count de Sonde at
+his chateau, Mr. Duval?� inquired Ruth, who
+happened to be standing next the Frenchman.</p>
+<div class="figure">
+<img src="images/illus-098.jpg" alt="image"/>
+<p class="caption">The Count Walked With the Two Girls.</p>
+</div>
+
+<p>
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_101'></a>101</span>
+“A number of times, Miss Stuart,� answered
+Monsieur Duval. “The count and I are old
+friends.�</p>
+
+<p>“Is it built on a mountain or in a valley?�
+queried Ruth. She did not know herself exactly
+why she repeated her question.</p>
+
+<p>“The Chateau de Sonde nestles in the heart
+of a valley,� was Monsieur Duval’s prompt answer.</p>
+
+<p>He caught Ruth’s eyes fixed on him with an
+expression of wonder. But it was Ruth, not
+Monsieur Duval, who blushed furiously. The
+man’s eyes were gray and inscrutable. “Why
+do you ask, Mademoiselle?� he inquired.</p>
+
+<p>“I don’t know,� Ruth answered lamely.
+The man frightened her. He seemed so brilliant,
+so traveled, so strong, so dangerous. And
+yet, he had just told Ruth a lie. Why should
+he pretend he had visited at the Chateau de
+Sonde?</p>
+
+<p>“Come, everybody; it is time for luncheon,�
+called Mr. Stuart an hour later, when his
+guests had finished their survey of the ostrich
+cages.</p>
+
+<p>The “Automobile Girls� opened their immense
+lunch basket, which the chauffeur had
+set under the trees. The Countess Sophia insisted
+on helping the girls. She was all radiant
+smiles and gayety. She hummed a song to
+herself full of delicious, bird-like trills, in a
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_102'></a>102</span>
+voice that had been wonderfully trained. In
+every way the countess showed what pleasure
+she felt in the picnic. So much so that she was
+easily the central figure of the party.</p>
+
+<p>Finally the entire company seated themselves
+in a circle on the ground, Maud Warren and
+her father with flushed faces. They had evidently
+been having a private altercation about
+the Count de Sonde. The count however looked
+serenely unconscious of the fact.</p>
+
+<p>A sense of tranquility and cheerfulness soon
+stole over every one. The day was enchanting.
+The chicken and nut sandwiches and other eatables
+tasted unusually good, and the party did
+full justice to the tempting luncheon the Stuarts
+had provided.</p>
+
+<p>All the guests laughed and talked at the same
+time. Suddenly the countess began to sing
+again in a low voice: “Knowest thou the land?�
+from “Mignon.�</p>
+
+<p>The others listened with delight.</p>
+
+<p>Down the avenue a vehicle was heard approaching.
+There was a cloud of dust enveloping
+it. It was impossible for the picnic party
+to distinguish the occupants of the carriage.
+The countess’s back was turned toward the
+equipage. She did not look around. Mollie
+and Ruth were glad that she did not turn, for
+they recognized the two foreigners who had
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_103'></a>103</span>
+frightened the young Countess Sophia in the tea
+garden the afternoon before.</p>
+
+<p>The men drove up to a palm tree near the
+spot where Mr. Stuart’s guests were eating.
+They hitched their horse. Then they walked
+deliberately over to the picnickers. Without a
+word one of the men reached down. He touched
+the Countess Sophia von Stolberg on the arm.</p>
+
+<p>Undoubtedly he was German. His face
+looked threatening and his manner was insulting.
+His companion waited near him. The
+Countess Sophia shuddered as the stranger
+touched her. She trembled and turned pale like
+a frightened child.</p>
+
+<p>“Madame,� said the German, “you are
+wanted by the police. We have been sent to
+arrest you.�</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. De Lancey Smythe gave a hysterical
+laugh of triumph.</p>
+
+<p>But the young countess quickly recovered her
+self-control.</p>
+
+<p>“You have made a mistake,� she returned
+quietly, to the man, whose hand still rested on
+her arm. “What have I done to be arrested?
+You have no right to annoy me.�</p>
+
+<p>“You are the notorious swindler wanted by
+the police of two continents,� accused the
+German. “I am here to take you back to
+France where you are wanted.�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_104'></a>104</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>Madame de Villiers now arose. She lifted her
+great mahogany cane, her face dark with anger.</p>
+
+<p>“You will regret this day’s work,� she announced.
+“Be gone!�</p>
+
+<p>But she had hardly finished her speech, before
+Mr. Stuart was on his feet. He seized the
+intruder by the collar, and before the man could
+more than raise his hand from the Countess
+Sophia’s arm, he was hurled several feet away,
+landing in a heap on the ground.</p>
+
+<p>“You foreign idiot,� cried Mr. Stuart, forgetting
+his women guests in his anger. “How
+dare you come here and create a disturbance
+among my friends. You are without a warrant
+or a policeman. The Countess Sophia von Stolberg
+is our friend. You shall pay dearly for
+your insolence. Leave this place without a second’s
+delay or I shall lay violent hands on you.�</p>
+
+<p>The two strangers did not dare defy Mr. Stuart.
+Mr. Warren had also risen and hurried
+to his friend’s aid and the two Americans looked
+thoroughly capable of enforcing their commands.</p>
+
+<p>The foreigners went back to their carriage.
+After a slight delay they drove off, still muttering
+veiled threats.</p>
+
+<p>When they had disappeared down the avenue,
+Countess Sophia gave Mr. Stuart her hand.
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_105'></a>105</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>“I thank you, Monsieur,� she said. “Madame
+de Villiers and I are alone. It is good to have
+a protector. I do not know why those men attempted
+to arrest me without a warrant. I assure
+you they had not just cause. I believe they
+were sent by an enemy.�</p>
+
+<p>“Perhaps, Countess,� replied Mr. Stuart,
+“those two men think you are some one else.
+I know there is a notorious swindler at large at
+Palm Beach. It is probably a case of mistaken
+identity.�</p>
+
+<p>The Countess Sophia made no answer. Barbara,
+who was watching her closely, saw a look
+of unmistakable fear leap into her dark eyes
+at the mention of the word “swindler.� Bab
+glanced quickly about her and encountered the
+eyes of Monsieur Duval. In them was an expression
+of cruel triumph that made Bab feel
+certain that he was in some way responsible for
+the late unpleasant scene.</p>
+<div class='chapter'>
+<a id='chX'></a>
+<p class='cln0'>CHAPTER X</p>
+<p class='cln1'>THE SECRET SIGNALS</p>
+</div>
+
+
+<p>Ruth was stretched out on a steamer rug
+on the warm sands, lazily looking out
+over the blue waters.</p>
+
+<p>Barbara was disporting herself in the waves
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_106'></a>106</span>
+like a water sprite who had dared to show herself
+among mortals. Many of the bathers
+stopped to watch with admiration the figure
+of the young girl plunging gracefully through
+the waves.</p>
+
+<p>But Ruth was not watching Barbara. She
+was thinking deeply.</p>
+
+<p>Why had the Countess Sophia von Stolberg
+refused to prosecute the two foreigners who had
+deliberately insulted her?</p>
+
+<p>Immediately after their return from the picnic
+Mr. Stuart had written the young countess
+a note. He suggested that he have the two
+strangers put out of their hotel, even driven
+away from Palm Beach. But the countess’s
+reply had been polite, but firm. No; she did not
+wish to prosecute her annoyers. The men had
+simply made a mistake. There would be less
+notoriety if she let the matter drop.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Stuart was not satisfied. He assured the
+countess that he and Mr. Warren had sufficient
+influence to have the two men sent away without
+the least publicity attending their dismissal.
+Still the decision of the countess remained unchanged.
+She graciously thanked Mr. Stuart
+for his kindness, but she really preferred to let
+the whole matter drop.</p>
+
+<p>There was nothing more to be said.</p>
+
+<p>Ruth now observed these same two men.
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_107'></a>107</span>
+They were seated not far from her, watching
+Barbara with stolid admiration. So far as
+Ruth knew they had not repeated their attempt
+to arrest the countess. But they had not confessed
+their error, nor offered to apologize
+either to Mr. Stuart or to the countess.</p>
+
+<p>The story that there was a notorious woman
+swindler at large at Palm Beach was now common
+gossip.</p>
+
+<p>“It is absurd to suspect the countess,� Ruth
+thought as she reviewed the recent disagreeable
+incident. “If the scandal goes any further I
+shall side with her, no matter what may be the
+consequences.� Ruth ended her reverie by
+making this last statement aloud. But she was
+sorry a second later.</p>
+
+<p>A voice spoke at her elbow. “Do you think,
+Mademoiselle Ruth,� it inquired, “that suspicion
+of a certain person will reach a point where
+you will be required to take sides?�</p>
+
+<p>Ruth started. She had been in a brown study,
+and was embarrassed and annoyed at having
+been caught speaking aloud.</p>
+
+<p>The voice belonged to Monsieur Duval. He
+had come dripping from his swim in the ocean,
+and had laid himself in the sand directly behind
+Ruth without her noticing him.</p>
+
+<p>“To what suspicion do you refer, Mr. Duval?�
+Ruth asked haughtily. She knew this
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_108'></a>108</span>
+clever Frenchman could read her mind like an
+open book. But she did not intend to confess
+that her remark had referred to the young
+countess.</p>
+
+<p>Monsieur Duval smiled. “I am afraid I listened
+at the door of your thoughts,� he said.
+“I think I can guess with whom you intend to
+take sides. But I promise not to betray your
+secret. I am sorry I overheard your last remark.
+Yet I do not see why you think the
+Countess Sophia may be accused of being this
+notorious woman criminal. It is true she allows
+herself to be persecuted without reason.
+She will not appear at this, or any other hotel,
+and keeps herself as much in seclusion as possible.
+Also she will not tell us the country of
+her birth, nor does she refer to any friends,
+but——� Monsieur Duval stopped.</p>
+
+<p>Ruth was indignant at the array of evidence
+that this Monsieur Duval was able to present
+against the young countess. She flushed guiltily,
+but wisely refrained from answering the
+Frenchman.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Duval was obliged to continue the conversation.</p>
+
+<p>“Do you wish to help your friend?� he asked
+Ruth quietly.</p>
+
+<p>“Of course,� Ruth replied warmly.</p>
+
+<p>The Frenchman leaned over. “Then watch
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_109'></a>109</span>
+everything, but say nothing. And, above all
+things, do not have a too accurate memory.�</p>
+
+<p>Ruth was about to make an angry retort,
+when Mr. Duval skilfully changed the subject
+of their conversation. He praised Bab’s wonderful
+diving. It reminded him of Neapolitan
+boys he had seen diving for pennies. Mr. Duval
+next told Ruth of a walking trip he had
+once made through southern Italy. She listened
+very much against her will to the entertaining
+Frenchman and it was with distinct relief
+that she saw Miss Sallie approaching them,
+dressed in an imported lavender linen and carrying
+a parasol and a book.</p>
+
+<p>Maud and her count appeared from the opposite
+direction. They also came forward to join
+Ruth and Monsieur Duval. Bab ran up the
+beach, shaking the drops of water from her blue
+bathing suit, her wet curls sparkling in the sun.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Duval did not wish to remain with so
+large a party. His words had been for Ruth’s
+ears alone. As Miss Stuart approached he
+bowed ironically to Ruth and strolled away.</p>
+
+<p>“How glad I am that we are not in the cold,
+sleet and blizzards of Chicago, child,� Miss
+Stuart remarked, bringing Ruth back to earth
+again. “The Countess Sophia was right in saying
+our American climate in the north is unbearable
+in the winter time. I never felt so
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_110'></a>110</span>
+well in my life as I do in this delightful
+place.�</p>
+
+<p>“Aunt Sallie,� asked Ruth thoughtfully, ignoring
+the weather, and going back to the idea
+that was uppermost in her mind. “Do you
+think the Countess Sophia could be in need of
+money?�</p>
+
+<p>“How can I tell, child?� replied Miss Sallie.
+“The countess dresses plainly, but her gowns
+are in excellent taste. They are made by
+a modiste in Vienna, who, I happen to know, is
+one of the most expensive in Europe. On the
+other hand Madame de Villiers and the countess
+live very quietly. They keep only two servants.
+But the countess has the air of a woman of
+wealth and culture.�</p>
+
+<p>“Are we going to dine with the countess to-morrow
+night?� asked Ruth impetuously.</p>
+
+<p>“Certainly, child,� Miss Sallie replied, her
+serenity undisturbed. “It is true your father
+may not have returned from his fishing trip,
+but there is no reason why we should not go
+without him.�</p>
+
+<p>Ruth closed her eyes. Could it be possible
+that they might be invited to eat food paid for
+by money gained dishonestly? Surely Monsieur
+Duval could not have spoken the truth!</p>
+
+<p>“Here comes that Mrs. De Lancey Smythe,�
+remarked Miss Sallie with sudden energy. “I
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_111'></a>111</span>
+do wish that woman would keep away from
+us.�</p>
+
+<p>“Aunt Sallie,� said Ruth, “what do you dislike
+most about Mrs. De Lancey Smythe?�</p>
+
+<p>“Don’t ask me, my dear,� returned Miss Stuart
+rather impatiently. “Everything I should
+say. I must confess that the very sight of her
+irritates me.�</p>
+
+<p>“There is something peculiar about her, at
+any rate,� said Ruth, “I have seen her face
+grow hard as rock and look positively wicked
+when she thought no one was noticing her.
+Marian is afraid of her, too.�</p>
+
+<p>“Nonsense, Ruth,� replied Miss Sallie severely.
+“You and Barbara let your imaginations
+have too free rein. I don’t approve of
+the woman and dislike her intensely, but I am
+not going to make her out an ogre.�</p>
+
+<p>“She is, though,� persisted Ruth. “That’s
+why you don’t like her, only you don’t know
+it yourself. Some day you’ll see I am right.
+Oh, here come Mollie and Grace. What’s new,
+chilluns?� and springing to her feet Ruth called
+to Bab then hurried toward the approaching
+girls.</p>
+
+<p>Mollie and Grace had been out in a boat all
+morning with some new friends they had made
+at the hotel. As Ruth walked toward them she
+noticed that Mollie’s cheeks were very red, and
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_112'></a>112</span>
+that she wore a look of suppressed excitement.
+Grace seemed almost equally agitated. Before
+she could reach them, however, she was hailed
+by a crowd of young people who were strolling
+on the beach, and she and Bab were obliged to
+stop and hold conversation.</p>
+
+<p>Mollie felt that it was imperative to summon
+Bab and Ruth. How could she manage without
+being observed? A sudden thought came
+to her. Putting her hand back to her curls she
+hastily untied the ribbon that bound them. The
+ribbon was blue. In an instant Mollie twisted
+it into a bow knot and pinned it on her left
+shoulder. Would Barbara and Ruth remember
+what the secret signal meant?</p>
+
+<p>Mollie need not have wondered. Hastily
+separating themselves from the crowd of talkers
+Bab and Ruth sped up the beach to join Mollie
+and Grace.</p>
+
+<p>“What is it, Mollie?� cried Bab out of breath.
+“I remember the blue ribbon. It was to signify:
+‘I have important news to communicate!’
+What has happened?�</p>
+
+<p>“As we passed the countess’s villa on the
+launch, this morning,� Mollie whispered mysteriously,
+“we saw a red flag tied to one of the
+posts of her pavilion. The countess wishes to
+see us on important business!�
+</p>
+<div class='chapter'>
+<span class="pagenum pncolor"><a id="page_113"></a>113</span>
+<a id='chXI'></a>
+<p class='cln0'>CHAPTER XI</p>
+<p class='cln1'>WHEELS WITHIN WHEELS</p>
+</div>
+
+
+<p>“Shall we go to the countess at once,
+Ruth?� asked Barbara.</p>
+
+<p>Ruth hesitated. “The chauffeur has
+gone away for the day,� she replied. “And
+we have no one to take us by boat to the villa.�</p>
+
+<p>Mollie’s blue eyes filled with tears. She had
+feared that Ruth suspected their lovely countess.
+Now she was sure of it. How absurd for
+Ruth to suggest they could not use the automobile
+because her chauffeur was away. The
+“Automobile Girls� had traveled for days at
+a time, with Ruth as her own chauffeur, while
+the trip to the countess’s villa represented only
+a few miles.</p>
+
+<p>“How can you be so cruel, Ruth?� Mollie
+cried. “You just don’t want to go to the countess’s
+aid because you have listened to tales
+about her from that horrid Mrs. Smythe.�</p>
+
+<p>“I haven’t listened to Mrs. Smythe, Mollie,�
+Ruth answered soothingly. “But I have been
+thinking. You can’t deny that there is a good
+deal of mystery surrounding the Countess Sophia.
+There are many things that it seems to
+me she might explain. I don’t wish to be
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_114'></a>114</span>
+hateful, and of course I can drive our car over to
+the countess’s, though I have never taken out
+such a big car alone before. Come; let’s get
+ready.�</p>
+
+<p>Barbara hesitated. “Mollie,� she protested,
+“I don’t think it is right for us to make Ruth
+take us to see the countess, if she would rather
+not go.�</p>
+
+<p>Mollie bit her lips. “Ruth Stuart,� she said,
+“you talk about the countess explaining things.
+What have you ever asked her to explain? If
+there is anything you want to know about her,
+ask her to tell you. It is not fair to keep silent,
+and still not to trust her.�</p>
+
+<p>Ruth had a sudden conviction that she would
+as soon approach the Queen of England to inquire
+into her private affairs as to ask questions
+of the Countess Sophia von Stolberg.</p>
+
+<p>“Well, Mollie, I will say this much,� Ruth
+conceded. “I never doubt our countess when
+I am with her. She is so beautiful and sweet
+that I forget to be suspicious. But, when I am
+away from her, I have just wondered a little,
+that’s all! Now, don’t be cross, Barbara,
+but come with me. I am going to get out the
+automobile. Grace, will you and Mollie explain
+to Aunt Sallie where we are going?�</p>
+
+<p>“I’ll tell you what, Ruth,� Bab suggested.
+“Let us make up our minds not to suspect the
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_115'></a>115</span>
+countess because of any gossip we hear. There
+seems to be a great deal of talking going on,
+but nobody makes any definite charges. The
+countess has been delightful to us. I am afraid
+I am on her side as much as Mollie. The
+countess, right or wrong, but still the countess!�</p>
+
+<p>“Loyal Bab!� cried Ruth, patting Barbara’s
+hand. “See, I cast all my suspicions away!�
+Ruth waved her other hand. “The cause of
+the countess is my cause also. I shall fight for
+her, through thick and thin.� Ruth looked as
+though she meant what she said.</p>
+
+<p>The “Automobile Girls� were soon on their
+way to the countess’s pretty villa. Mollie still
+held herself apart from the other three girls.
+She felt that no one of them had risen to the
+defence of her adored countess with the ardor
+she expected.</p>
+
+<p>Ruth was running the car slowly. It was only
+a few miles to the villa. Ruth was a cautious
+chauffeur, and was not in the habit of managing
+so large an automobile.</p>
+
+<p>As her car moved quietly and steadily toward
+its destination, another small automobile
+dashed past it. Ruth glanced about quickly.
+The man who drove the small car was exceeding
+the speed limit. He was alone. He wore a long
+dust coat with the collar turned up to
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_116'></a>116</span>
+his ears; he had a cap pulled low over his face,
+and he wore an immense pair of green goggles.
+But Ruth’s quick eyes recognized him. Her
+three companions paid little attention to the
+man.</p>
+
+<p>“Bab,� said Ruth, at almost the same instant
+that the small car swept by them, “it is
+Monsieur Duval who is driving that car!�</p>
+
+<p>“Well,� replied Bab, “what of it? I did not
+know Mr. Duval was a motorist. But I am not
+surprised, for he seems to know almost everything.�</p>
+
+<p>“Bab, I think he is on his way to see the
+Countess Sophia von Stolberg,� Ruth announced
+with conviction.</p>
+
+<p>“He does not know the countess, does he?�
+Grace inquired. “I think he was introduced
+to her only through us.�</p>
+
+<p>“I don’t know what Monsieur Duval knows
+and what he doesn’t know,� explained Ruth.
+“But I should like to find out. Anyhow, I am
+going to beat him to the countess’s house. If
+she has something important to tell us, Monsieur
+Duval shall not keep us from hearing it.�</p>
+
+<p>Ruth put on full speed and started her car in
+pursuit of the flying automobile in front of her.
+In a few seconds she drew near the automobile.
+The little car was on the right side of the road
+and making its best speed. Ruth sounded her
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_117'></a>117</span>
+horn. She swerved her great car to the left in
+order to pass the smaller one.</p>
+
+<p>Bab uttered a cry of terror. Mollie and
+Grace both screamed. Ruth’s face turned
+white, but she had no time to scream.</p>
+
+<p>The small motor car just in front of her immense
+automobile turned like a flash. It swept
+across the road immediately in the path of
+Ruth’s on-coming car, and not more than a few
+paces ahead of her.</p>
+
+<p>It was either a mad piece of foolishness on
+the part of the chauffeur, or a magnificent dare.
+At the moment Ruth did not stop to wonder
+whether the man ahead of her had deliberately
+risked his life and theirs in order to accomplish
+some purpose. All her ability as a driver was
+needed to meet the situation.</p>
+
+<p>Ruth’s hands never left the steering wheel
+of her car. In less than a half second, she put
+on the full stop brake. With a terrific wrench
+her great automobile settled back. It stopped
+just one foot this side of the car that had crossed
+their path.</p>
+
+<p>Ruth was white with anger. She saw, a moment
+later, that the driver ahead of her had
+accomplished his design. For no sooner had
+Ruth’s car stopped, than the other motorist
+forged ahead. Ruth resumed the chase, but
+she was obliged to be careful. She dared not
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_118'></a>118</span>
+risk the lives of her friends by driving too close
+to the other car. The man ahead might repeat
+his trick. Ruth could not be sure that she could
+always stop her motor in so brief a space of
+time and distance.</p>
+
+<p>So the smaller of the two automobiles arrived
+first at the countess’s villa.</p>
+
+<p>The Countess Sophia von Stolberg evidently
+expecting a visit from the “Automobile Girls,�
+sat at her piano in her drawing-room, playing
+one of Chopin’s nocturnes. At the sound
+of the automobile outside on the avenue the
+countess left her music and ran out on her
+veranda to meet her young visitors. But instead
+of the four girls a heavy, well-built man
+in a long dust coat and goggles approached the
+countess. The countess did not recognize him
+at once. A suave voice soon enlightened her.
+“Madame,� it said. “I have come to see you
+on an important matter of business. I must see
+you alone.�</p>
+
+<p>“What business can you have with me, Monsieur
+Duval?� asked the young countess coldly.
+But her voice trembled slightly.</p>
+
+<p>“I bring you news of a friend,� declared Mr.
+Duval quietly.</p>
+
+<p>“I have no friends whom you could know,
+Monsieur,� answered the Countess Sophia.</p>
+
+<p>“No?� her visitor replied, shrugging his
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_119'></a>119</span>
+shoulders and speaking in a light bantering tone.
+“Shall I inform you, then, and your young
+friends, whom I now see approaching?�</p>
+
+<p>Ruth’s motor car was now in plain sight. The
+four girls rushed forward to join the countess.</p>
+
+<p>At the same moment the tap-tap of a stick
+was heard inside the house. Madame de Villiers
+appeared, followed by Johann with a tray
+of lemonade.</p>
+
+<p>The countess spoke quickly. “No, no, you
+must say nothing to me, now. I cannot listen
+to you. Please go away.�</p>
+
+<p>Bab noticed that the countess was trembling
+when she took her hand.</p>
+
+<p>Monsieur Duval bowed courteously to Ruth.
+“Mademoiselle,� he declared, “I owe you an
+apology. I fear I am but a poor chauffeur.
+My car swerved in front of yours on the road.
+It was unpardonable. I offer you many thanks
+for your skill. You saved us from a bad
+smash-up.�</p>
+
+<p>Ruth colored. Hot words rose to her lips.
+But she feared to say too much. She looked
+at Mr. Duval gravely. “I think, Mr. Duval,�
+she remarked, as suavely as the Frenchman
+could have spoken, “it will be wise for you not
+to run a motor car unless you learn how to
+handle it better. You are right. We were exposed
+to great danger from your carelessness.�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_120'></a>120</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>Madame de Villiers now gazed sternly at
+Monsieur Duval. “Have I the pleasure of
+your acquaintance?� she inquired coldly, turning
+her lorgnette on the Frenchman.</p>
+
+<p>Monsieur Duval lost some of his self-assurance
+in the presence of this beak-nosed old
+lady. “I met you at Mr. Stuart’s picnic,
+Madame,� he explained. “Good-bye, ladies.�
+Monsieur Duval bowed low. Then he turned
+to the countess. “I will deliver my news to
+you, Countess Sophia, whenever you are pleased
+to hear it.� A moment later the Frenchman
+disappeared. But on his way back to his hotel
+he smiled. “If life were not a lottery it would
+be too stupid to endure. Yet this is the first
+time in my career that a group of young girls
+have tried to beat me at my own game.�</p>
+
+<p>When the Frenchman had finally gone the
+countess turned to Mollie, and kissed her. Then
+she looked affectionately at Bab, Grace and
+Ruth.</p>
+
+<p>“You saw my signal, didn’t you?� she asked,
+smiling. “What an energetic society to come
+to me in such a hurry! I really have something
+to tell you. It is something serious. Yet
+I must ask you to trust me, if I tell you only
+part of a story. I cannot tell you all. As it
+is much too beautiful to stay indoors, suppose
+we go to my pavilion down by the water.�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_121'></a>121</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>On the way to the boathouse, Ruth stopped
+to embrace Mollie. “Mollie, darling, forgive
+me!� she whispered. “I promise you never
+to doubt our lovely countess again. She is perfect.�</p>
+
+<p>When the Countess Sophia and the four “Automobile
+Girls� were safely in the boathouse,
+the young hostess sighed. “I am sorry to talk
+about disagreeable things to-day,� she murmured.
+“You cannot understand what a pleasure
+it is to me to know four such charming
+young girls. I have had so few companions in
+my life. Indeed I have been lonely, always.�</p>
+
+<p>The “Automobile Girls� were silent. They
+hardly knew what to reply.</p>
+
+<p>“I must try to tell you why I sent for you,�
+the countess went on. “I want to warn
+you——�</p>
+
+<p>“About the Count de Sonde?� cried Mollie,
+who had never gotten over her first prejudice.</p>
+
+<p>“Yes,� replied the countess slowly. “I think
+I promised to help you save your girl friend
+Maud Warren. I am afraid she and the count
+are more interested in each other than you girls
+imagine.� The countess faltered and looked
+fearfully about her. “You must not let Miss
+Warren marry the Count de Sonde,� she murmured.
+“You must stop such a wedding at all
+hazards. The Count de Sonde is——�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_122'></a>122</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>“Is what?� asked Barbara.</p>
+
+<p>The countess shook her head. Again she
+blushed painfully. “I cannot tell you now,�
+explained the countess. “But I know this. If
+Miss Warren marries the Count de Sonde she
+will regret it all her life.�</p>
+
+<p>“But how can we prevent Maud’s marrying
+the count if she wishes to do so?� queried
+practical Bab. “Unless you can tell us something
+definite against the count, we cannot go
+to Mr. Warren or Maud. Mr. Warren has already
+forbidden Maud to have anything to do
+with the Count de Sonde, but Maud continually
+disobeys her father.�</p>
+
+<p>“I am sorry,� said the young countess hesitatingly.
+“I wish I dared tell you more. But
+I can explain nothing. Only I warn you to be
+careful.�</p>
+
+<p>“Need we to fear the Frenchman, Monsieur
+Duval?� Ruth asked thoughtfully.</p>
+
+<p>The countess was silent for a moment. Then
+she said slowly, “You must fear him most of
+all!�
+</p>
+<div class='chapter'>
+<span class="pagenum pncolor"><a id="page_123"></a>123</span>
+<a id='chXII'></a>
+<p class='cln0'>CHAPTER XII</p>
+<p class='cln1'>MAUD REFUSES TO BE RESCUED</p>
+</div>
+
+
+<p>When the “Automobile Girls� chaperoned
+by Miss Sallie, descended to the
+hotel ball room that evening, where
+a hop was in progress, the orchestra was playing
+the “Blue Danube� and Maud and the
+Count de Sonde were waltzing together. The
+spectators seated along the wall smiled in spite
+of themselves for the count’s style of dancing
+was far from graceful. His idea of waltzing
+consisted in whirling his partner round and
+round, and as Maud was at least four inches
+taller than the count and very thin, the effect
+was indescribably ridiculous.</p>
+
+<p>“How absurd the count looks!� Bab exclaimed
+to Ruth. “Just look at those high
+heels and that strutting walk! Do you suppose
+Maud Warren can really care for him?�</p>
+
+<p>“No; I don’t think she cares for him at all,�
+Ruth returned. “It is the lure of his title that
+has fascinated Maud. The title, ‘Count de
+Sonde’ is like music in her ears.�</p>
+
+<p>“Do you think Mr. Warren would disinherit
+Maud, if she married the count?� asked Bab.</p>
+
+<p>Ruth shook her head. “Mr. Warren gave
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_124'></a>124</span>
+Maud half a million dollars in her own name
+a year ago,� Ruth explained. “So, you see,
+she is an heiress already. Besides, Mr. Warren
+would never forsake Maud. He simply
+adores her. I think he went off on that fishing
+trip with father just to keep from seeing Maud
+carry on. He thinks Aunt Sallie may be able
+to influence her while he is gone. But do look
+at Miss Sarah Stuart, Bab!�</p>
+
+<p>Miss Sallie swept down the ball-room floor
+in a handsome black satin and jet evening gown,
+with Mrs. De Lancey Smythe in her wake.</p>
+
+<p>There was the fire of battle in Miss Stuart’s
+eye. On the widow’s cheeks burned two flaming
+signals of wrath.</p>
+
+<p>“Maud Warren was left in my care by her
+father, Mrs. Smythe,� declared Miss Sallie.
+“In Mr. Warren’s absence I forbid Maud’s
+going about unchaperoned with the Count de
+Sonde.�</p>
+
+<p>“Miss Warren is not a child, Miss Stuart,�
+replied Mrs. De Lancey Smythe angrily. “If
+she chooses to go about with the count I hardly
+see how you can prevent it. The Count de
+Sonde is a noble, trustworthy young man.�</p>
+
+<p>“Miss Warren shall not go with him against
+my wishes,� replied Miss Stuart quietly, “and
+I fail to see how the matter can possibly interest
+you.�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_125'></a>125</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. De Lancey Smythe’s voice trembled
+with rage. “You appear to be excessively
+strict with Miss Warren, Miss Stuart,� she returned,
+“yet you allow your niece and her
+friends to associate, every day, with a woman
+who is entirely unknown to you, a woman about
+whom this entire hotel is talking.�</p>
+
+<p>“Whom do you mean?� Miss Sallie demanded.
+She was exceedingly angry.</p>
+
+<p>“Mean?� Mrs. De Lancey Smythe laughed
+mockingly. “I mean this so called Countess
+Sophia von Stolberg. She is no more a countess
+than I am. She is a fugitive and a swindler.
+She will be arrested as soon as there is
+sufficient evidence against her.�</p>
+
+<p>The “Automobile Girls� had moved up close
+to Miss Sallie. They waited to hear what she
+would say in regard to the countess.</p>
+
+<p>“I do not believe the countess to be an impostor.
+She is our friend,� replied Miss Stuart.
+“I think we need have no further conversation.
+Miss Warren will do as I request.�
+Without answering the other woman moved
+away with flashing eyes and set lips, leaving
+Miss Sallie in triumphant possession of the situation.</p>
+
+<p>In a few moments Maud Warren came over
+to where Miss Sallie and the “Automobile
+Girls� were still standing.
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_126'></a>126</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>“Maud, won’t you come up to our room to-night
+after the dance?� Ruth urged. “We
+thought it would be jolly to make some fudge
+in a chafing dish.�</p>
+
+<p>“Can you cook?� laughed Maud. “How
+funny! It is awfully good of you to ask me to
+join you, but I have another engagement for
+this evening.�</p>
+
+<p>“Maud,� said Miss Sallie firmly, “your
+father left you in my charge. I cannot permit
+you to keep an engagement with the Count de
+Sonde.�</p>
+
+<p>Maud was speechless with astonishment. No
+one had ever forbidden her to do anything in
+her life. Her father had always tried persuasion
+and argument. Ruth’s eyes twinkled as
+she saw the effect Miss Sallie’s firmness had
+upon Maud. Greatly to her surprise Maud
+Warren answered quite meekly: “Very well,
+Miss Stuart. I will not see him if you do not
+wish it.�</p>
+
+<p>The “Automobile Girls� breathed a sigh of
+relief. They had feared another battle between
+Miss Sallie and Maud.</p>
+
+<p>“This is jolly!� exclaimed Maud Warren,
+an hour later. The five girls were in Ruth’s
+sitting-room. They were eating delicious
+squares of warm chocolate fudge.</p>
+
+<p>“I am glad you are enjoying yourself,�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_127'></a>127</span>
+replied Ruth. “We would be glad to see you
+often, but you always seem to be busy.�</p>
+
+<p>Maud tried to look unconscious. “It’s the
+count’s fault. The poor fellow has a dreadful
+crush on me,� she sighed.</p>
+
+<p>“Do you care for him?� asked Barbara
+bluntly.</p>
+
+<p>Maud simpered. “I really don’t know,� she
+replied. “I think the Count de Sonde has a
+beautiful soul. He tells me I have a remarkable
+mind—such sympathy, such understanding!�</p>
+
+<p>Ruth choked over a piece of fudge. The
+other girls seemed to regard her accident as a
+tremendous joke. Maud was entirely unconscious
+that she had anything to do with their
+merriment.</p>
+
+<p>“Then you really like the count very much!�
+exclaimed Mollie, opening her pretty blue eyes
+so wide that Maud was amused.</p>
+
+<p>“You dear little innocent thing!� returned
+Miss Warren. “Of course I think the count
+a very interesting man. I don’t deny he has
+taken my fancy. But as for being in love with
+him—well, that is another thing.�</p>
+
+<p>“Do you really know anything about the
+count, Maud?� asked Ruth. “Your father
+doesn’t approve of him, and don’t you think he
+knows best?�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_128'></a>128</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>“Oh, father never approves of any of my
+friends,� complained Maud Warren impatiently.
+“But Mrs. De Lancey Smythe is on
+my side. She likes the count.�</p>
+
+<p>“But do you know much about Mrs. De Lancey
+Smythe?� Ruth went on.</p>
+
+<p>Maud was nettled. “Mrs. De Lancey Smythe
+is a Virginian, and belongs to an old southern
+family,� she returned.</p>
+
+<p>The “Automobile Girls� looked uncomfortable.
+It was Ruth who finally spoke.</p>
+
+<p>“I hope you won’t be angry, Maud. It is
+only because we like you that I am going to tell
+you something you ought to know. Some one
+told me to warn you to be careful.�</p>
+
+<p>“Careful about what?� cried Maud, though
+her flushed face betrayed the answer she
+expected.</p>
+
+<p>“The Count de Sonde,� replied Ruth.</p>
+
+<p>“But what have you heard against him?� demanded
+Maud indignantly.</p>
+
+<p>It was Ruth’s turn to flush. What had she
+heard? If only the countess had been a little
+less vague in her accusations against the count.</p>
+
+<p>“I am afraid I don’t know anything very
+definite to tell you,� Ruth confessed, in an
+embarrassed tone. “Yet we have heard rumors
+about the count. Foreign noblemen are often
+fortune-hunters, you know.�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_129'></a>129</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>“My dear Ruth, the Count de Sonde is not
+in need of money,� protested Maud. “He is
+very wealthy. Only the other day he showed
+me a letter from his lawyer. It spoke of two
+hundred thousand francs. It is true the letter
+was written in French. But the count translated
+it for me. And then, of course, I know a
+little French myself.�</p>
+
+<p>“Oh, well,� sighed Ruth, “perhaps we have
+no right to suspect him. But, Maud, I beg of
+you to go slowly. You may be mistaken in the
+count. Think how you would regret it if you
+were to marry him and find afterwards that he
+had deceived you.�</p>
+
+<p>“Marry the count!� Maud’s tones expressed
+great astonishment, then she gave a satisfied
+laugh. “Don’t worry about my affairs. The
+count is a real nobleman,� she declared.</p>
+
+<p>A knock sounded at the door, and a bellboy
+handed Ruth a note. It was addressed to Miss
+Warren. Ruth gave it to her. Maud opened
+it. A gratified smile overspread her face, then
+turning to the “Automobile Girls� she said:
+“Will you please excuse me, girls, I want to go
+up to my room for a little while. I will be back
+in a few minutes.�</p>
+
+<p>The girls ate their fudge in silence for a
+time. Maud did not return.</p>
+
+<p>“I wonder if Maud is coming back?�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_130'></a>130</span>
+remarked Barbara, after a little. “Somehow, I
+am sorry for Maud. It must be dangerous to
+be so rich and so silly at the same time.�</p>
+
+<p>“I am afraid Maud is hopeless,� Ruth contended.
+“I don’t believe it is going to do the
+slightest good for us to warn her against the
+count. I wonder if we could manage to save
+her in any other way?�</p>
+
+<p>Miss Sallie came into the room. “Where is
+Maud Warren?� she demanded immediately.</p>
+
+<p>The “Automobile Girls� could only explain
+Maud had gone to her room.</p>
+
+<p>Miss Sallie rang the bell, and sent a maid to
+inquire for Maud.</p>
+
+<p>The answer came back a few moments later.
+“Miss Warren had left the hotel for the evening
+with several friends.�</p>
+
+<p>Miss Stuart said nothing. But the “Automobile
+Girls� knew Miss Sallie would never
+forgive Maud Warren for her disobedience.</p>
+
+<p>The four girls were almost ready to say good
+night, when another light tap sounded at their
+door.</p>
+
+<p>The girls lowered their voices. Perhaps
+Maud had lost heart, and had returned to them
+after all.</p>
+
+<p>Barbara went to the door. It was Marian
+De Lancey Smythe who had knocked. She
+wished to speak with Bab for a moment.
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_131'></a>131</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>Five minutes later Barbara returned to her
+friends, looking considerably mystified.</p>
+
+<p>“Now, Barbara Thurston, what did Marian
+Smythe have to say to you?� demanded Mollie.
+“It is not fair, your having secrets with her
+from the rest of us.�</p>
+
+<p>“Oh, Marian asked me if we were going to
+the countess’s to dinner to-morrow night,� Bab
+replied.</p>
+
+<p>“What a strange question!� exclaimed Grace
+Carter. “I don’t see why she should care
+where we go to dinner.�</p>
+
+<p>“Perhaps she had some plan or other on
+hand herself that she wanted us to take part
+in,� suggested Mollie.</p>
+
+<p>Bab was silent.</p>
+
+<p>“By the way,� exclaimed Ruth, “did you
+know I received a letter to-day from darling
+Olive Prescott? She and Jack have arrived in
+Paris, and have set up housekeeping in the dearest
+little flat in the Rue de Varennes. They
+live on the top floor, and Jack has the front
+room for his studio. Of course Olive declares
+Jack is the best husband in the world. He is
+painting Olive’s portrait for the Paris Salon,
+and working desperately hard so as to have it
+finished by April. Come, let’s go to bed.�</p>
+
+<p>Just as Barbara was dropping off to sleep
+Ruth gave her a little shake.
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_132'></a>132</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>“Tell me Barbara Thurston, what Marian De
+Lancey Smythe said to you in the hall!�</p>
+
+<p>“I told you, child,� murmured Bab hesitatingly.</p>
+
+<p>“Honor bright, did you tell us everything,
+Bab Thurston?�</p>
+
+<p>“No-o-o, not everything,� admitted Bab.
+“This is exactly what Marian said: ‘Barbara
+are you going to dine with the countess to-morrow
+night?’ ‘Yes,’ I replied. Then she said:
+‘You had better not go. But if you do go, come
+home early, and don’t ask me the reason, why.�</p>
+
+<p>“We’ll go, sure as fate!� exclaimed Ruth.
+“No matter what Marian says.�</p>
+<div class='chapter'>
+<a id='chXIII'></a>
+<p class='cln0'>CHAPTER XIII</p>
+<p class='cln1'>A SURPRISE PARTY</p>
+</div>
+
+
+<p>It had been a long day of uninterrupted
+pleasure for the “Automobile Girls�—one
+of those sparkling, brilliant days that
+seem to belong peculiarly to Florida in the early
+spring.</p>
+
+<p>All morning the girls had cruised around the
+lake in a launch. Later in the day they had
+bathed in the salt water of the Atlantic. After
+luncheon they had played several sets of tennis;
+and, later Miss Sallie had taken them to
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_133'></a>133</span>
+the cocoanut grove to drink lemonade and listen
+to the music.</p>
+
+<p>Miss Sallie had not spoken either to Maud
+Warren or to Mrs. De Lancey Smythe since the
+evening before. The two women had carefully
+avoided Miss Stuart. Once inside the cocoanut
+grove Bab’s sharp eyes soon discovered Maud,
+Mrs. Smythe and Marian seated at a table concealed
+by an enormous cluster of palms. They
+were deep in conversation. Mrs. Smythe was
+pouring wholesale flattery into Maud’s ears to
+which the foolish girl was listening eagerly.</p>
+
+<p>Marian espied Barbara and came over to
+greet Miss Sallie and the “Automobile Girls.�
+She knew nothing of her mother’s difficulty with
+Miss Sallie.</p>
+
+<p>“Marian,� whispered Bab, as her new friend
+sat down next to her, “why did you wish to
+know whether we were going to the countess’s
+to dinner to-night?�</p>
+
+<p>“Why do you ask?� said Marian, looking a
+little frightened.</p>
+
+<p>“Why it sounded to me as though you must
+have a reason for what you said,� argued Bab.
+“Were you trying to warn me about anything?
+Or, is it simply that you do not like the countess?�</p>
+
+<p>“I think the countess is very fascinating,�
+was Marian’s only reply.
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_134'></a>134</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>“Won’t you even tell me why you told us to
+come home early if we did go?� persisted Barbara.</p>
+
+<p>Marian gave a forced laugh. “Oh, I was only
+giving you a little good advice about sitting up
+late. But just the same, I’m a very wise person
+and you had better take my advice.�</p>
+
+<p>“What are you two girls whispering about?�
+asked Ruth gayly. “Never have secrets from
+your little friends. It hurts their feelings,
+dreadfully.�</p>
+
+<p>“We aren’t having secrets,� responded Barbara.
+“That is not exactly. I’m only trying
+to persuade Marian to tell me something. But
+she’s a regular Sphinx.�</p>
+
+<p>“Which would you rather be, a Sphinx or a
+chatterbox?� inquired Marian. “And if you
+would, why would you, and if thus, why, therefore
+and whereupon?�</p>
+
+<p>“Fine!� exclaimed Ruth. “I never dreamed
+you could reel off nonsense like that, Marian.�</p>
+
+<p>Marian laughed then rising said, “I suppose
+I shall have to go back to Mama. I only came
+over for a minute.� Her eyes again met Barbara’s,
+and she shook her head slightly, then
+nodding good-bye to the girls she crossed over
+to where her mother was still conversing with
+Maud.</p>
+
+<p>“Why did she shake her head at you, Bab?�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_135'></a>135</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>“She says again that we must come home
+early from the villa, to-night, but she won’t tell
+me why,� replied Bab. “She evidently knows
+something that we don’t. She was even more
+mysterious to-day than she was last night. Do
+you think we had better go?�</p>
+
+<p>“Go! Of course we will,� cried Ruth. “I
+don’t believe Marian has anything very serious
+on her mind.�</p>
+
+<p>“Really, children,� interposed Miss Sallie in
+an annoyed tone, “if you begin to conjure up
+mystery over so simple a matter as a dinner invitation
+I shall feel obliged to keep you all at
+home. One would think I was chaperoning a
+party of young sleuths, instead of four normal
+girls out for a holiday.�</p>
+
+<p>This remark was received with discreet silence,
+on the part of the four girls, and whatever
+their thoughts on Marian’s warning were
+they sternly repressed uttering them aloud during
+the remainder of the time spent in the grove.</p>
+
+<p style="font-size:smaller">&#160;</p>
+
+<p>At eight o’clock that night Miss Sallie and
+the “Automobile Girls� were seated about the
+countess’s table with only their hostess and her
+chaperon. There were no other guests at dinner.</p>
+
+<p>“How delightful not to be bored by stupid
+men!� exclaimed the countess, smiling at her
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_136'></a>136</span>
+circle of guests. “And what a charming picture
+the young girls make, Madame de Villiers,
+do they not? There is not a black coat in our
+midst to mar the effect of our pretty light
+frocks. Let me see, Miss Stuart wears violet,
+dear Madame, gray. And the ‘Automobile
+Girls’ might represent the four seasons. Ruth,
+you may be Spring, in your pale green silk
+frock; little Mollie will have to play Summer
+in her corn colored gown; Bab’s scarlet frock
+makes me think of October; and Grace is our
+Snow Maiden in her white frock.�</p>
+
+<p>The countess wore a beautiful gown of white
+messaline. Her exquisite face was radiant with
+child-like pleasure. During the dinner the
+room rang with her gay laughter. She had
+never seemed so young, so gracious, and so innocent
+as she appeared to the “Automobile
+Girls� that night.</p>
+
+<p>At each plate the countess herself had placed
+a small bunch of freesias, whose delicate perfume
+filled the room.</p>
+
+<p>“They are my favorite flowers,� the hostess
+explained gently, “because they remind me of
+my beloved Italy.�</p>
+
+<p>At the close of dinner a bowl of bon-bons
+was passed around the table. There was a
+good deal of noise and confusion. The girls
+popped the crackers, drew out the mottoes and
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_137'></a>137</span>
+read them, and decorated themselves with the
+fancy paper caps. They were too absorbed in
+their own pleasure to think, or hear, or see,
+anything that might have been taking place outside
+the dining-room. Madame de Villiers, a
+military cap on her gray hair, looked as fierce
+and terrifying as a seasoned warrior.</p>
+
+<p>Dinner over, the countess led the way into
+her drawing-room, where the laughter and gayety
+continued. Madame de Villiers played brilliantly
+on the piano. The young people danced
+until they were exhausted. Suddenly the young
+countess caught her train up over her arm, and
+ran out into the centre of the floor. At a nod
+from her, Madame de Villiers began to play
+the wild, passionate music of the Russian
+Mazurka. Then the countess danced. Again
+and again she went through the intricate and
+dramatic figures. Her audience was spellbound.
+No one noted the flight of time.</p>
+
+<p>Finally Bab whispered to Ruth: “Don’t you
+think we had better go upstairs for our wraps?
+It is growing late.� The two girls slipped
+quietly away without a word.</p>
+
+<p>Ascending the stairs to the countess’s sleeping
+room they gathered their arms full of evening
+coats and scarfs. On a little balcony just
+outside the window of the sleeping room
+crouched the figure of a man. His keen eyes
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_138'></a>138</span>
+watched Bab and Ruth intently as they made
+ready to leave the room and join their friends
+downstairs, entirely unconscious of the figure
+hiding so near to them.</p>
+
+<p>On the first landing of the stairs, Bab
+stopped. Ruth was ahead.</p>
+
+<p>“Go on, Ruth,� Barbara called down to her.
+“I have left my handkerchief on the dressing
+table. I will be with you in a minute.�</p>
+
+<p>Bab ran quickly back to the room she had just
+left. Her soft satin slippers made no sound
+on the floor. It was almost impossible to hear
+her approach.</p>
+
+<p>Bab paused at the half-open door of the bedchamber
+in horrified surprise. Inside the room
+that she and Ruth had just left a man bent over
+the countess’s desk. Her Russian leather writing-case
+was wide open. The man was running
+through her papers with a practised hand.</p>
+
+<p>Bab could have turned and run downstairs
+again. The intruder would never have heard
+her. But, although Barbara shook with fear
+for a moment, she placed her wraps softly on
+the floor and stepped noiselessly back into the
+room. The man was still unaware of her presence.
+Bab’s eyes roved about the room in
+search of a weapon. Her hand resting for an instant
+on the dressing table, came in touch with
+something metallic and cold. It was a silver
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_139'></a>139</span>
+shoe horn, but Barbara gripped it eagerly, then
+she fastened her gaze upon the intruder. He
+was an old man with a shock of gray hair and
+a thick beard, that partially concealed the outline
+of his face. His lips were drawn back until
+his teeth showed and in his bent attitude he
+reminded Bab of a gigantic ape. Under the concentration
+of her gaze the strange apparition
+looked up and saw her as she stood unflinching,
+watching with alert eyes his slightest movement.
+Without uttering a sound the man began to
+move slowly toward her, his fierce eyes never
+for a moment leaving her face.</p>
+
+<p>“What are you doing here?� Bab demanded
+bravely. “You are a thief!�</p>
+
+<p>Instead of running away from him the girl
+started toward the man. As she did so she
+raised the shoe horn and pointed it at him. Had
+the light in the room not been turned low he
+must have discovered the trick. As it was the
+faint light, glinting on the polished metal gave
+it the appearance of a revolver. The ape-like
+figure began backing slowly toward the balcony.
+At the window he paused, as if debating
+whether he dared take the chance of leaping
+upon her. Bab settled the question for him
+by making a threatening move with the supposed
+weapon. The thief whirled, sprang out
+on the balcony and dropped to the ground.
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_140'></a>140</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>Barbara ran to the window. She saw that he
+had disappeared, then the room began to whirl
+about her. She thought she was going to faint,
+for she felt her strength rapidly leaving her.</p>
+
+<p>With a great effort she threw off the weakness
+that was overcoming her and looked out
+across the lawn.</p>
+
+<p>During the early part of the evening a large
+motor boat cruiser, after having put her owner
+ashore at Palm Beach had dropped down and
+come to anchor for the night hard by the boathouse
+belonging to the villa occupied by Countess
+Sophia. Lights were twinkling from the
+port holes of the boat and her anchor light
+swayed listlessly at the stern. There were no
+other signs of life aboard the boat on the bow
+of which one at close range might have made
+out the word “Restless� in raised gold letters.</p>
+
+<p>Barbara wondered if their terrible visitor had
+come from the boat lying there quietly on the
+moonlit waters.</p>
+
+<p>Just then the buzz of excited voices was
+borne to her ears. She heard the Countess Sophia’s
+clear tones, then an excited little scream,
+mingled with the deep voice of Madame de Villiers
+raised in angry expostulation.</p>
+
+<p>Still gripping her shoe horn Bab raced down
+the stairs, and parted the portières that hung
+between the drawing room and hall.
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_141'></a>141</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>What she saw was like the tableau from a
+melodrama. Crowded close to the piano stood
+the Countess Sophia, while directly in front of
+her stood Madame de Villiers, thoroughly enraged
+and brandishing her gold-headed cane at
+two men who seemed about to seize the young
+countess. Clustered in a frightened group at
+one side of the room stood Miss Stuart, Mollie
+and Grace. Ruth was nowhere to be seen.</p>
+
+<p>One of the men made a sudden stealthy
+move toward the countess.</p>
+
+<p>“Stand back,� commanded Madame de Villiers.</p>
+
+<p>Just then Ruth’s clear tones were heard outside
+the villa. “They’re in that room! Oh,
+hurry please!�</p>
+
+<p>There was a sound of running feet and into
+the room darted two young men clad in white
+yachting clothes, and wearing officers’ caps.</p>
+
+<p>“We’re just in time,� called one of the newcomers.
+“This is something in our line of
+sport. Stand aside, girls. We’ll soon have
+these fellows on the run.�</p>
+
+<p>With this he grasped one of the men by the
+collar and dragging him to the open hall door,
+picked him up and threw him off the veranda
+onto the drive where he landed with a thud.
+A moment later his companion had disposed of
+the other offender in like manner.
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_142'></a>142</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>“Watch them, Joe,� ordered the taller of the
+two yachtsmen. “If they try to enter the house
+again, call me. I guess we can give them all
+they’re looking for. I’m going inside to see if
+there are any more rascals who need attention.�</p>
+
+<p>“Oh you brave boys!� exclaimed Madame de
+Villiers as the young man entered the drawing-room
+where the women were huddled together
+talking excitedly.</p>
+
+<p>“I think the credit belongs to the young
+woman who had the presence of mind to go for
+help,� smiled the youth, bowing to Ruth.</p>
+
+<p>“I had to do something!� exclaimed Ruth.
+“I saw your boat early in the evening, and when
+those two men came in here and began threatening
+the countess I felt that the only thing
+to do was to see if some one on the yacht would
+help us.�</p>
+
+<p>“Did you see the other man?� asked Barbara
+anxiously. “He was old and white-haired
+and looked exactly like an ape. He was upstairs
+on the balcony, while I was in the countess’s
+room getting our wraps. Then I forgot
+my handkerchief. When I went back for it he
+was in the room. I frightened him away with
+a shoe horn. He thought it was a revolver. He
+dropped to the ground from the balcony and
+ran towards the yacht. I thought perhaps he
+belonged on the boat.�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_143'></a>143</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>“Not with us,� declared the yachtsman.
+“Allow me to introduce myself. I am Captain
+Tom Halstead and my friend out there on the
+veranda, is Joseph Dawson, engineer of the
+motor yacht ‘Restless’ which lies at anchor
+just off the shore. We belong to the ‘Motor
+Boat Club’ boys, but I doubt if you have ever
+heard of us before.�</p>
+
+<p>Although Tom Halstead and Joe Dawson
+were strangers to the “Automobile Girls� they
+are well known to the majority of our readers.
+Born and brought up on the Maine coast the
+ocean was their play ground from early boyhood
+and their fondness for the sea led them
+to later perfect themselves in the handling of
+motor boats. These two youths with a number
+of other sturdy young men comprised the
+famous club of young yacht skippers and engineers,
+organized by a Boston broker and headed
+by Halstead as fleet captain, with Dawson as
+fleet engineer.</p>
+
+<p>The reason for the appearance of the yacht
+“Restless� at this particular place and time is
+set forth in “<span class='sc'>The Motor Boat Club in Florida</span>,�
+the fifth volume of the “<span class='sc'>Motor Boat
+Club Series</span>.� That the two young men had
+responded instantly to Ruth’s call for help was
+in itself the best proof of the manliness and
+courage of the “Motor Boat� boys.
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_144'></a>144</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>The countess who in the meantime had recovered
+from the first shock of the recent disturbance
+now presented Miss Stuart, Madame
+de Villiers and the “Automobile Girls� to Tom
+Halstead. A moment later Joe Dawson entered
+the room, and more introductions followed.</p>
+
+<p>“Well, they’ve gone,� declared Dawson.
+“They picked themselves up very slowly and
+painfully and fairly slunk down the drive. I
+don’t imagine they will trouble you again to-night.
+However we’d better appoint ourselves
+as special watchmen about the grounds until
+morning. I do not wish to seem inquisitive but
+was the motive of these rascals common robbery?�</p>
+
+<p>“The men did not wish money,� replied the
+countess slowly. “They wished to steal a certain
+paper I have in my possession in order to
+destroy it. That is why the old man was
+searching my writing case. But he did not find
+the paper, for I carry it about my person. Forgive
+me for being so mysterious, and believe
+that my reason for secrecy is one of grave importance.�</p>
+
+<p>“There is nothing to forgive, Madam,� replied
+Captain Halstead courteously. “We are
+only too glad to have been of service to you and
+beg that you will continue to accept our services
+at least until to-morrow. Then I would advise
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_145'></a>145</span>
+you to procure a special officer to remain at
+the villa in case you should be annoyed further
+by these villains.�</p>
+
+<p>“Thank you,� exclaimed the countess, with
+evident agitation. “I hardly think we shall be
+troubled again. I do not wish an officer to come
+here.�</p>
+
+<p>“We must return to the hotel, Countess,�
+said Miss Stuart. “It is growing late and my
+brother will become uneasy about us.�</p>
+
+<p>This time the women were assisted with their
+cloaks by the “Motor Boat� boys and no startling
+interruption occurred. Ruth ran down the
+drive a little ahead of the party to where her
+automobile stood. Then she uttered a sudden
+cry of dismay. All four tires had been cut.</p>
+
+<p>“Oh the rascals!� she exclaimed. “How
+dared they do such a contemptible thing?
+We’ll have to go back to the villa and telephone
+for another car. Father will be so worried!�</p>
+
+<p>An indignant babble of feminine voices ensued
+broken by the deeper tones of the two
+young men as the party turned to go back to
+the villa.</p>
+
+<p>Just then a familiar sound was borne to their
+ears. It was the chug! chug! of a rapidly approaching
+automobile. A moment later the car
+rolled up the drive. “It’s Father!� Ruth exclaimed.
+“Oh, I’m so glad.�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_146'></a>146</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>“What seems to be the trouble, Sallie?�
+queried Mr. Stuart, springing from the car.
+“It’s after midnight. I grew worried when
+you didn’t return to the hotel at eleven, so decided
+I had better come out after you. I rather
+think we exceeded the speed limit too,� he
+laughed, turning to the chauffeur.</p>
+
+<p>Then Ruth burst forth with an excited account
+of the night’s adventure. Mr. Stuart
+looked grave. “I shall send you an officer in
+the morning, Countess,� he said.</p>
+
+<p>“These are the two young men who came so
+gallantly to our rescue, Mr. Stuart,� said the
+countess, turning to the “Motor Boat� boys
+who stood modestly in the background.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Stuart shook hands with both young men,
+thanking them for their prompt response to
+the call for help. “We should be pleased to
+have you dine with us to-morrow evening,� he
+said.</p>
+
+<p>“Thank you,� responded the young captain,
+“but we shall weigh anchor in the morning.�</p>
+
+<p>After bidding farewell to the two young men
+and good night to Madame de Villiers and the
+Countess Sophia, the “Automobile Girls� and
+Miss Sallie stepped into the car in which Mr.
+Stuart had driven to the villa.</p>
+
+<p>“I’ll send a man out to put that other car in
+shape to-morrow,� he said to Ruth as they sped
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_147'></a>147</span>
+down the drive. “But, hereafter when this
+valiant band, known as the ‘Automobile Girls’
+pays a visit to the Countess Sophia I shall insist
+upon accompanying them whether or not I
+am invited.�</p>
+<div class='chapter'>
+<a id='chXIV'></a>
+<p class='cln0'>CHAPTER XIV</p>
+<p class='cln1'>THE PLOT THICKENS</p>
+</div>
+
+
+<p>Maud Warren apologized to Miss Sallie.
+Mr. Warren had been greatly
+displeased when he heard of his
+daughter’s disobedience, and had reprimanded
+her in such severe terms, that she anxiously endeavored
+to conciliate Miss Stuart at the earliest
+opportunity. Miss Sallie, however received
+her effusive apology very coldly, and it was
+some time before Maud felt in the least comfortable
+in her society.</p>
+
+<p>One evening soon after the eventful dinner
+with the countess, the “Automobile Girls�
+started out for a moonlight stroll accompanied
+by Miss Stuart, Mr. Stuart, Mr. Warren and
+Maud. Just as they were leaving the hotel
+Marian Smythe appeared on the veranda and
+was asked to join them.</p>
+
+<p>“Where have you been keeping yourself,
+Marian?� asked Ruth.
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_148'></a>148</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>Marian flushed.</p>
+
+<p>“I’ve been very busy,� she said hastily.
+Then as if anxious to change the subject:
+“Have you been to the countess’s villa lately?�</p>
+
+<p>“No,� replied Ruth quickly. “Not since the
+dinner there. Have you heard anything about
+her?�</p>
+
+<p>“No,� answered Marian shortly, and relapsed
+into moody silence.</p>
+
+<p>As they strolled leisurely along Barbara who
+had been walking ahead with Miss Stuart,
+dropped behind with Marian.</p>
+
+<p>“I want to ask you something, Marian,� she
+began.</p>
+
+<p>“Little girls should never ask questions,�
+said Marian lightly, but Barbara felt that her
+apparent unconcern was forced.</p>
+
+<p>“Have you heard about what happened at
+the villa the night we dined there?� persisted
+Bab.</p>
+
+<p>“I have heard something about it,� admitted
+Marian, in a low voice. “It was an attempt
+to rob the countess, was it not?�</p>
+
+<p>“You could hardly call it robbery,� replied
+Barbara. “The men took nothing. But they
+acted in a very mysterious manner, and there
+was one perfectly hideous old man who was a
+real burglar for I caught him going through the
+things in the countess’s sleeping room, when I
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_149'></a>149</span>
+went up stairs after our wraps. I drove him
+from the room.�</p>
+
+<p>“How did you ever do it, Bab?� asked
+Marian. There was an expression of absolute
+terror in her eyes.</p>
+
+<p>“You’ll laugh when I tell you,� replied Bab.
+“I drove him away with a shoe horn.�</p>
+
+<p>“A shoe horn?� repeated Marian questioningly.
+“I don’t understand.�</p>
+
+<p>“He thought from the way I held it that I
+had a revolver in my hand,� explained Barbara.
+“You see it was silver and as the light
+in the room was turned low it looked like polished
+steel. At any rate it answered the purpose.�</p>
+
+<p>“You are very brave, Bab,� said Marian admiringly.
+“Considering the man with whom
+you had to deal you showed wonderful courage.�</p>
+
+<p>“What do you mean, Marian, by ‘the man
+with whom I had to deal’? Who is that frightful
+old man?� asked Barbara, looking searchingly
+at the other girl. “Why did you warn
+us not to dine with the countess? Did you know
+what was to happen? You must tell me,
+Marian, for I must know. If the countess or
+any of us is in danger it is your duty to tell
+me. Can’t you trust me with your secret,
+Marian?�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_150'></a>150</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>Marian shook her head. Her lip quivered,
+and her eyes filled with tears.</p>
+
+<p>Barbara waited patiently for her to regain
+her self-control.</p>
+
+<p>“Bab,� she said in a choked voice. “I can’t
+answer your questions. I dare not. I am a miserable
+victim of circumstances, and all I can say
+is that your danger is in being friendly with
+the countess. She has an enemy who will stop
+at nothing to gain his own end, and he will
+crush you, too, if you stand in his way.�</p>
+
+<p>“Tell me, Marian,� said Bab eagerly. “Do
+you know anything about the countess?�</p>
+
+<p>“Very little,� was the reply, “and that little
+I may not tell. But this I promise you, that no
+matter what may be the consequences to myself,
+I will warn you in time should any special
+danger threaten you girls or her. That is, if I
+have the slightest opportunity to do so.�</p>
+
+<p>Marian stretched out her hand and Bab
+clasped it. “Thank you, dear Marian,� she
+said. “I know you will keep your word.�</p>
+
+<p>After an hour’s stroll the party repaired to
+the hotel veranda, where ices and cakes were
+served to them. Every one, with the exception
+of Maud Warren, was in high good humor.
+Even Marian emerged from the gloom that had
+enveloped her earlier in the evening, laughing
+and talking merrily with the “Automobile
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_151'></a>151</span>
+Girls.� Maud, however was in a distinctly rebellious
+state of mind. During their walk they
+had encountered the Count de Sonde and Monsieur
+Duval, and although Mr. Stuart and Mr.
+Warren had exchanged polite civilities with the
+two Frenchmen, they had not invited them to
+join the party. While Maud, still smarting inwardly
+from her father’s recent sharp censure,
+had not dared to brave Mr. Warren’s certain
+anger by doing so. Her only means of retaliation
+lay in sulking, and this she did in the most
+approved fashion, refusing to take part in the
+conversation, and answering in monosyllables
+when addressed. Ruth and Barbara vainly
+tried to charm away her sulks by paying her
+special attention, but she merely curled her lip
+scornfully, and left the veranda soon after on
+plea of headache. Mr. Warren sighed heavily
+as he looked after her retreating figure, but
+made no comment. Yet his friends knew instinctively
+what was passing in his mind, and
+the “Automobile Girls� solemnly vowed each
+in her own heart to watch over Maud and save
+her if possible from the schemes of fortune-hunting
+nobility.</p>
+
+<p>“Is there anything more perfect than this
+Florida moonlight!� asked Ruth, during a lull
+in the conversation, as she leaned back in her
+chair and gazed with half closed eyes at the
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_152'></a>152</span>
+silvery tropical world before her. “Positively,
+I could sit out here all night!�</p>
+
+<p>“It looks as though we were in a fair way
+to do so,� replied her father, glancing at his
+watch. “Half-past eleven. Time all children
+were in bed.�</p>
+
+<p>“Really, Robert, I had no idea it was so late,�
+said Miss Sallie, stifling a yawn. “I believe I
+am sleepy. Come, girls, it is time for us to
+retire.�</p>
+
+<p>“Oh, Aunt Sallie!� exclaimed Ruth. “How
+can you be so cruel?�</p>
+
+<p>“‘I must be cruel to be kind,’� quoted Miss
+Stuart. “If I allow you to moon out here until
+unseasonable hours, you will never get
+started on your picnic to-morrow, at seasonable
+ones.�</p>
+
+<p>“She speaks the truth,� said Ruth dramatically,
+“I will arise and hie me to the hay, for
+come what may, I swear that I will picnic with
+the rosy morn.�</p>
+
+<p>“I thought you were going to picnic with
+us,� said Grace flippantly.</p>
+
+<p>“So I am,� replied Ruth calmly. “That
+statement was mere poetical license.�</p>
+
+<p>“First find your poet,� said Bab slyly.</p>
+
+<p>Whereupon there was a chorus of giggles at
+Ruth’s expense, in which she good-naturedly
+joined.
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_153'></a>153</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>“I’m really more tired than I thought I was,�
+she yawned, a few moments later as she sat
+curled up in a big chair in the room adjoining
+Miss Stuart’s which she and Barbara occupied.</p>
+
+<p>“I’m tired and sleepy, too,� responded Barbara.
+“It’s almost midnight. We’ll never
+get up early to-morrow morning. Oh, dear!�
+she exclaimed a second later, “I’ve left my
+pink scarf down on the veranda. It’s hanging
+over the back of the chair I sat in. I’ll go
+down this minute and get it, before any one has
+had time to see it or take it away.�</p>
+
+<p>Suiting the action to the word Bab hurried
+out of the room, and along the corridor. She
+did not stop for an elevator but ran lightly
+down the two flights of stairs and out to the
+veranda. It was but the work of a moment to
+secure her scarf, which hung over the back of
+the chair, just as she had left it. The veranda
+was deserted except for a group of three people
+who stood at the far end in the shadow.
+Their backs were toward Bab and they were
+talking earnestly in low voices. Barbara stood
+petrified with astonishment, scarcely able to believe
+the evidence of her own eyes, for the
+group consisted of Monsieur Duval, Mrs. De
+Lancey Smythe and—enveloped in the pale blue
+broadcloth cloak Bab had often seen her wear
+was the Countess Sophia.
+</p>
+<div class='chapter'>
+<span class="pagenum pncolor"><a id="page_154"></a>154</span>
+<a id='chXV'></a>
+<p class='cln0'>CHAPTER XV</p>
+<p class='cln1'>CAUGHT NAPPING</p>
+</div>
+
+
+<p>The following morning Barbara awoke
+with the feeling of one who has experienced
+a disagreeable dream. Was it a
+trick of her imagination, or had she really seen
+their beautiful young countess deep in conversation
+with Monsieur Duval and Mrs. De Lancey Smythe?
+True Bab had not seen her face,
+but her height, and carriage—the blue cloak—were
+unmistakable.</p>
+
+<p>On her return to their room Bab had not
+mentioned her unpleasant discovery to Ruth.
+She could not bear to voice any actual charge
+against the Countess Sophia. “Perhaps it will
+all be explained yet,� she told herself, and with
+a wisdom far beyond her years, she resolved to
+be silent, at least for the present, about what
+she had seen.</p>
+
+<p>When the launch which Mr. Stuart had chartered,
+with its freight of picnickers, had put out
+from shore and headed for the villa, where they
+were to pick up the countess and Madame de
+Villiers, Barbara had loyally decided to let not
+even the evidence of her own eyes sway her
+into condemning the countess unheard.
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_155'></a>155</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>On their arrival at the villa they found the
+countess and Madame de Villiers ready and
+waiting for them, and the sailing party was
+soon comfortably seated in the roomy launch.
+Madame de Villiers occupied a wicker chair
+opposite Miss Sallie, while the young countess
+and the “Automobile Girls� had stretched a
+steamer rug over the roof of the small cabin,
+and lay upon it in picturesque attitudes under
+their sunshades.</p>
+
+<p>There was a churning of the propeller, a
+shrill toot from the whistle, and the launch
+glided out over the water as smoothly as a
+canoe rides down stream.</p>
+
+<p>“We’re off!� cried Mr. Stuart joyously.</p>
+
+<p>“I believe you are just a great boy still, Robert,�
+smiled Miss Sallie indulgently.</p>
+
+<p>The day’s excursion had been arranged by
+Mr. Stuart. He was an enthusiastic fisherman,
+and on his return from the fishing expedition
+with Mr. Warren he at once began to plan a
+similar excursion for the “Automobile Girls,�
+extending his invitation to the countess and
+Madame de Villiers.</p>
+
+<p>It was an ideal day for a picnic. The sun
+shone brilliantly down on Palm Beach, making
+it look like an enchanted land. The bathers
+were out in full force. A little farther up the
+beach countless flower-trimmed hats and
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_156'></a>156</span>
+many-hued parasols made gorgeous blots of color
+along the white sands. Overhead the sky was
+an intense blue, and the water reflected the blueness
+in its depths.</p>
+
+<p>“You can never understand how happy this
+makes me,� declared the countess, bestowing
+an enchanting smile upon the little company.
+“Mr. Stuart, we thank you for the many pleasures
+you have given Cousine and me. Someday
+I hope I may be able to do something for
+you.�</p>
+
+<p>“Wait until the picnic is over before you
+thank me, Countess,� replied her host. “The
+fishing may bore you, especially if the fish don’t
+bite.�</p>
+
+<p>“Ah, well,� laughed the countess, “I could
+fish patiently all day, under a sky like this without
+complaining, if I were to catch nothing but
+a minnow.�</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Stuart’s fishing party had made an early
+start. They were to land some miles up the
+coast, where those who were not of a mind to
+fish could make themselves comfortable on
+shore.</p>
+
+<p>The journey was not a short one. It was
+well past eleven o’clock when they landed on a
+hard shell beach, broken here and there by
+patches of marsh grass.</p>
+
+<p>“You are especially privileged to be allowed
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_157'></a>157</span>
+to set foot on these shores,� Mr. Stuart assured
+his guests, as he handed them out of the
+launch. “The location of this place has been
+kept a secret; otherwise it would be overrun
+with tourists and excursionists.�</p>
+
+<p>“Is it so beautiful?� Ruth inquired.</p>
+
+<p>“Wait until you see it!� was Mr. Stuart’s
+reply.</p>
+
+<p>The beach sloped upward so as to form a wall
+that completely hid the land behind it from
+view.</p>
+
+<p>Ruth and Barbara ran on ahead.</p>
+
+<p>“Oh, Father,� cried Ruth excitedly. “This
+is a surprise!�</p>
+
+<p>The two girls were looking down into a beautiful
+little dell. It was like a tiny oasis, with
+a sand wall on one side of it, and a mass of
+palmettoes, oak trees and cocoanut palms encircling
+it on the other three sides. The ground
+was carpeted thickly with violets. Yellow jasmine
+and elder flowers gleamed through the
+foliage. The branches of the oak trees were
+draped with gray Spanish moss, which made
+quite a sombre background for the gay tropical
+scene.</p>
+
+<p>“This is to be your drawing-room and dining-room,
+Madame,� declared Mr. Stuart, as he
+helped Madame de Villiers over the sandy hillock.
+“You may do whatever you like here.
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_158'></a>158</span>
+You may pull the violets, or walk on them.
+There are no park rules.�</p>
+
+<p>“Was there ever such a place in the world!�
+exclaimed Countess Sophia. “I shall not leave
+it until we sail for home. The most wonderful
+of sea trout could not lure me from this enchanting
+spot.�</p>
+
+<p>“We shall stay here, too,� agreed Mollie and
+Grace. “I would rather gather violets than
+catch gold fish,� Mollie assured Mr. Stuart.</p>
+
+<p>The wicker chairs were brought from the
+launch, so that Madame de Villiers and Aunt
+Sallie could be comfortable in their sylvan retreat.
+Ruth and Barbara went off with Mr.
+Stuart on the quest for fish, while the young
+countess, Mollie and Grace gathered wild flowers
+and made wreaths of the sweet-smelling yellow
+jasmine.</p>
+
+<p>Grace ran with her crown of wild jasmine
+and placed it on Miss Sallie’s soft white hair.
+The countess placed her wreath on Madame de
+Villiers’s head.</p>
+
+<div>
+<p style='margin:0 auto 0 4ex'>“Oh, happy day, Oh, day so dear!�</p>
+</div>
+
+<p>sang Countess Sophia as she stuck one of the
+beautiful yellow flowers into her dark hair and
+danced with Mollie over the sands.</p>
+
+<p>It was a happy day indeed—one that the
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_159'></a>159</span>
+little party would never forget! Mysteries and
+unanswered questions were banished. Even
+Bab forgot for the time being all disquieting
+thoughts. The lovely young countess, with her
+eyes full of an appealing tenderness, had driven
+away all ugly suspicion.</p>
+
+<p>Several hours later the fishing party returned.</p>
+
+<p>“See what we’ve got!� Ruth exclaimed
+proudly, as she ran up the sand hill flourishing
+a string of speckled sea trout.</p>
+
+<p>“Miss am sho a lucky fisherman,� agreed the
+old colored man in whose boat Mr. Stuart and
+the two girls had been fishing.</p>
+
+<p>“But where are your fish, Barbara?� Grace
+inquired.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Stuart laughed. “Bab is the unluckiest
+fisherman that ever threw out a line,� he explained.
+“Shall I tell them, Bab?�</p>
+
+<p>Barbara flushed. “Oh, go ahead,� she consented.</p>
+
+<p>“Well,� Mr. Stuart continued, “Miss Barbara
+Thurston caught a tarpon a yard long this
+morning.�</p>
+
+<p>“Where is it?� cried the waiting audience.</p>
+
+<p>“Back in the sea, whence it came, and it nearly
+took Mistress Bab along with it,� Mr. Stuart
+answered. “When Barbara caught her tarpon,
+she began reeling in her line as fast as she
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_160'></a>160</span>
+could. But the tarpon was too heavy for it,
+and the line broke. Then Bab prepared to dive
+into the ocean after her fish.�</p>
+
+<p>“I was so excited I forgot I did not have
+on my bathing suit,� Bab explained. “I
+thought, if I could just dive down into the
+water, I could catch my tarpon, and then Mr.
+Stuart could pull us both back into the boat.�</p>
+
+<p>“Reckless, Barbara!� cried Miss Stuart.
+“What will you do next!�</p>
+
+<p>“Don’t scold, Aunt Sallie,� Ruth begged.
+“It was too funny, and Father and I caught hold
+of Bab’s skirts before she jumped. Then old
+Jim, the colored man, got the fish. So we had
+a good look at him without Bab’s drowning herself.
+But when we found that the catch was a
+tarpon, and not good to eat, Father flung it back
+in the water.�</p>
+
+<p>While Mr. Stuart and the girls were talking,
+Jim and the engineer from the launch built a
+fire. They were soon at work frying the fish
+for luncheon.</p>
+
+<p>Nobody noticed that a small naphtha launch
+had been creeping cautiously along the coast.
+It was sheltered from view by the bank of sand.
+And it managed to hide itself in a little inlet
+about a quarter of a mile away from Mr. Stuart’s
+larger boat.</p>
+
+<p>After a hearty luncheon no one had much to
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_161'></a>161</span>
+say. The “Automobile Girls� were unusually
+silent. Finally they confessed to being dreadfully
+sleepy. There is something in the soft
+air of Florida that compels drowsiness. Miss
+Sallie and Madame de Villiers nodded in their
+chairs. Mr. Stuart, the countess and the four
+girls stretched themselves on the warm sand.
+Jim slept under the lea of his small fishing boat,
+and the engineer of the launch went to sleep
+on the sand not far from the water’s edge.</p>
+
+<p>For nearly an hour the entire party slumbered.
+All at once Mr. Stuart awoke with a
+feeling that something had happened. He
+rubbed his eyes, then counted the girls and his
+guests. Miss Sallie was safe under the shadow
+of her parasol, which had been fixed over her
+head. Madame de Villiers sat nodding in her
+chair.</p>
+
+<p>The afternoon shadows had begun to
+lengthen; a fresh breeze was stirring the leaves
+of the palm trees. But, except for the occasional
+call of a mocking bird, not a sound could
+be heard.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Stuart waited. Did he not hear a faint
+noise coming from the direction of his launch.
+“The engineer has probably gone aboard!�
+Mr. Stuart thought.</p>
+
+<p>“It is high time we were leaving for home,�
+said he to himself.
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_162'></a>162</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>But as he stepped to the edge of the embankment
+he saw his engineer still lying on the
+ground sleeping soundly.</p>
+
+<p>A small boat like a black speck disappeared
+around a curve in the shore.</p>
+
+<p>“What on earth does that mean?� cried Mr.
+Stuart. Leaping over the sandy wall he ran toward
+his engineer. Mr. Stuart shook him
+gently. The man opened his eyes drowsily,
+yawned then raising himself to a sitting position,
+looked stupidly about.</p>
+
+<p>“A strange boat has just put out from here,�
+said Mr. Stuart quietly. “We had better go
+out to the launch and see if all is well.�</p>
+
+<p>The engineer rose to his feet, and still stupid
+from his heavy sleep, followed Mr. Stuart to
+the dinghy. The sound of voices aroused old
+Jim who clambered to his feet blinking rapidly.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Stuart and the engineer pushed off toward
+the launch, each feeling that he was about
+to come upon something irregular. Their
+premonitions proved wholly correct. The engine
+room of the pretty craft was a total wreck.
+The machinery had been taken apart so deftly,
+it seemed as though an engineer alone could
+have accomplished it, while the most important
+parts of the engine were missing.</p>
+
+<p>“Whose work is this?� ejaculated Mr. Stuart,
+clenching his fists in impotent rage. Suddenly
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_163'></a>163</span>
+it dawned upon him what the wrecking of his
+launch meant. He was on an uninhabited shore
+with seven women, his engineer, and colored
+servant, with no prospect of getting away that
+night.</p>
+
+<p>He felt in his pockets. A pen-knife was his
+only tool or weapon.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Stuart rowed back to shore to break the
+disagreeable news to the members of his party.
+But the sleepers were awake on his return.
+They had seen Mr. Stuart row hurriedly out to
+the launch with the engineer, and surmised instantly
+that something had happened.</p>
+
+<p>“Oh, dear, oh, dear!� wailed the countess,
+when Mr. Stuart had explained their plight.
+“Must I always bring ill-luck to you?�</p>
+
+<p>“Nonsense!� expostulated Mr. Stuart. “How
+could the wrecking of our engine have any connection
+with you, Countess?�</p>
+
+<p>Old Jim who still stood blinking and stretching
+now began to vaguely grasp the situation.</p>
+
+<p>“’Scuse me ladies,� he mumbled. “I spects
+I’se jest been nappin’ a little. I ain’t been
+’zactly asleep.�</p>
+
+<p>The “Automobile Girls� laughed, in spite of
+the difficulties which confronted them.</p>
+
+<p>“Oh no, you haven’t been asleep,� Mr. Stuart
+assured him, “but that nap of yours was a
+close imitation of the real thing.�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_164'></a>164</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>Jim grinned sheepishly and hung his woolly
+head. “I ’low nothin’ bad ain’t happened, suh.�</p>
+
+<p>“Something bad certainly has happened. In
+fact about as bad as it well could be, Jim,�
+declared Mr. Stuart. “Some wretch has tampered
+with the engine of our launch and left us
+high and dry on this lonely shore. We must
+do something and that something quickly. It’s
+getting late, and we don’t want to spend the
+night here, lovely as the place is. Where’s the
+nearest house or village?�</p>
+
+<p>“Lor’, suh,� exclaimed old Jim. “This am a
+lonesome spot. There ain’t no village no
+wheres round heah!�</p>
+
+<p>“But where is the nearest house, then?� demanded
+Mr. Stuart.</p>
+
+<p>The darkey scratched his head reflectively.</p>
+
+<p>“Ole Miss Thorne might take you in, Massa.
+Her place am about two miles from here. She’s
+my old missis. I live thar. I jest comes down
+here and helps fishin’ parties to land and takes
+them out in my boat in the daytime. Nights I
+sleeps at my old missis’s place. She comes of
+a fine family she do. But she’s a little teched in
+the head, suh.�</p>
+
+<p>“All right, Jim; show us the way to the house.
+But how are we to find a horse and wagon? My
+sister and Madame de Villiers will not care to
+walk that distance.�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_165'></a>165</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>“I got an old horse and wagon hitched near
+here, Massa,� Jim returned. “I come over in
+it this morning.�</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Stuart finally installed Miss Sallie, Madame
+de Villiers, and the young countess in the
+bottom of Jim’s old wagon. He also stored
+their lunch baskets away under the seats. Food
+might be precious before they found their way
+back to their hotel.</p>
+
+<p>Then Jim started his patient old horse, while
+Mr. Stuart and the “Automobile Girls� followed
+the wagon which led the way along a narrow
+road through the heart of the jungle.</p>
+
+<p>But before leaving the deserted shore, Mr.
+Stuart went back to the launch. He tacked a
+note on the outside of the cabin. The note explained
+the accident to their engine. It also
+stated that Mr. Stuart and his party had gone
+to seek refuge at the home of a Miss Thorne, two
+miles back from the shore.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Stuart did not believe the wrecker would
+return to the boat. He had accomplished his
+evil purpose. But Mr. Stuart did hope that
+another launch might visit the coast either that
+evening or in the early morning. Therefore he
+requested that any one who discovered his letter
+would come to Miss Thorne’s home for his
+party.
+</p>
+<div class='chapter'>
+<span class="pagenum pncolor"><a id="page_166"></a>166</span>
+<a id='chXVI'></a>
+<p class='cln0'>CHAPTER XVI</p>
+<p class='cln1'>WELCOME AND UNWELCOME GUESTS</p>
+</div>
+
+
+<p>The sun was just sinking when Mr. Stuart’s
+weary cavalcade stopped in front
+of a great iron gate. The gate was covered
+with rust and hung loose on its hinges. It
+opened into a splendid avenue of cypress trees.
+As far as the eye could see on each side of the
+road, ran overgrown hedges of the Rose of
+Sharon. The bushes were in full bloom and the
+masses of white blossoms gleamed in the gathering
+shadows like lines of new fallen snow.</p>
+
+<p>“How beautiful!� exclaimed the four “Automobile
+Girls� in chorus.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Stuart looked anxiously up the lonely
+avenue as his party stumbled along the rough
+road and peered cautiously into the hedge first
+on one side then on the other. It would have
+been easy for an army to hide itself in the cover
+of the thicket, which hemmed them in on all
+sides in an impenetrable wall of green.</p>
+
+<p>“I feel extremely uneasy, Robert,� declared
+Miss Sallie, her face pale under the stress of the
+day’s experiences.</p>
+
+<p>Old Madame de Villiers smiled and shrugged
+her shoulders. “I have no fear for myself,�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_167'></a>167</span>
+she said. “My husband is a soldier. I have
+followed him through two great wars. What
+comes must come. It is all in the day’s business.
+But the countess, she is different. She
+is in my charge; nothing must happen to her.
+I assure you, Mr. Stuart, it is of the utmost importance
+that the Countess Sophia be protected.�</p>
+
+<p>Miss Sallie held her head very high. Madame
+de Villiers was their guest, so Miss Stuart
+would say nothing. But why should Madame
+de Villiers think the safety of the Countess Sophia
+of more importance than that of the
+four “Automobile Girls?� Miss Sarah Stuart
+had other ideas. She was equally determined
+that no harm should overtake any one of her
+charges.</p>
+
+<p>The narrow avenue finally broadened into a
+lawn overgrown with flowers and vines. Back
+of it stood an old house that had once been a
+fine colonial mansion. The house seemed to
+frown on the intruders, who had come to destroy
+its sacred quiet.</p>
+
+<p>“I should think anybody might be ‘teched’ in
+the head, who lived alone in a queer place like
+this,� whispered Ruth to Bab, as the two girls
+stood with their arms about each other, staring
+ahead of them.</p>
+
+<p>“Will you see Miss Thorne first, Jim, and
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_168'></a>168</span>
+explain our plight to her?� Mr. Stuart asked
+the old colored man. “Or do you think it would
+be better to have me make matters clear?�</p>
+
+<p>“I’ll do the ’splainin’, Massa,� returned old
+Jim. “My missis will allus listen to me. I
+done tole you she wasn’t jes’ like other folks.�</p>
+
+<p>“Is your mistress insane, Jim?� inquired
+Miss Sallie anxiously.</p>
+
+<p>“No-o, ma’am,� returned the old man.
+“Miss Thorne she ain’t crazy. She’s puffectly
+quiet, suh, and she’s all right on every subject
+’cept one. I hates to tell you what that thing
+is.�</p>
+
+<p>“Out with it, Jim. What is the lady’s peculiarity?�</p>
+
+<p>“She imagines, suh, that her fambly is still
+with her, her own ma and pa, and young massa,
+and her sister Missy Lucy. Missy Rose ain’t
+never been married.�</p>
+
+<p>“Where is her family, Jim?� Ruth asked.</p>
+
+<p>“They lies yonder in the buryin’ ground,
+Missy,� replied the old darkey, pointing toward
+a clearing some distance from the house, where
+a few white stones gleamed in the twilight.</p>
+
+<p>Miss Sallie shuddered. Grace and Mollie
+huddled close to her, while Ruth and Bab gave
+each other’s hands re-assuring pressures.</p>
+
+<p>“Do you look after this Miss Thorne?� Mr.
+Stuart inquired further.
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_169'></a>169</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>“Yes, suh; me and my wife Chloe looks after
+her. Chloe cooks and I works about the place
+when I’se not down to the beach with my boat.
+But my missus ain’t so poor. She’s got enough
+to git along with. I jest likes to earn a little
+extra.�</p>
+
+<p>By this time Jim had climbed down from his
+shaky old wagon. He now opened the front
+door.</p>
+
+<p>“Walk right in,� he said hospitably, making
+a low bow. “I’ll go find Miss Rose.�</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Stuart’s party entered a wide hall that
+seemed shrouded in impenetrable gloom. On
+the walls hung rows of family portraits. The
+place was inexpressibly dismal. The “Automobile
+Girls� kept close to Mr. Stuart. In silence
+they waited for the appearance of the
+mistress of the house.</p>
+
+<p>Two candles flickered in the dark hallway.
+Out of the gloom emerged an old lady, followed
+by her two servants, who were bearing the
+lights. She was small and very fragile. She
+wore a gray silk gown of an old fashioned cut.
+Her dress was ornamented with a bertha and
+cuffs of Duchess lace.</p>
+
+<p>The old lady advanced and held out her small
+hand. “I am pleased to offer you shelter,�
+she declared to Mr. Stuart. “Jim has explained
+your predicament to me. We shall be only
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_170'></a>170</span>
+too happy to have you stay with us for the
+night.�</p>
+
+<p>At the word “we,� the “Automobile Girls�
+exchanged frightened glances. Their hostess
+was alone. But that one word “we� explained
+the situation. Did she mean that all the ghosts
+of her past still waited in the house to welcome
+unexpected visitors?</p>
+
+<p>“It has been many years since we have had
+guests in our home,� continued Miss Thorne.
+“But I think we have rooms enough to accommodate
+you.�</p>
+
+<p>Chloe conducted Miss Sallie, Madame de Villiers,
+the Countess Sophia and the four “Automobile
+Girls� into a great parlor. The room
+was furnished with old fashioned elegance.
+Candles burned on the high mantel shelves. But
+the dim lights could not dispel the shadow of
+desolation that pervaded the great room.</p>
+
+<p>A few minutes later Miss Thorne entered the
+room. “You must tell me your names,� she
+inquired sociably. “I wish to run upstairs and
+tell Mama about you. Poor Mama is an invalid
+or she would come down to see you.�</p>
+
+<p>Then calling Chloe to her, she said in a loud
+whisper:</p>
+
+<p>“Notify Miss Lucy and Master Tom at once.
+Papa can wait. He is busy in the library.�</p>
+
+<p>An uncanny silence followed Miss Thorne’s
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_171'></a>171</span>
+speech. Every one of the seven women looked
+unhappy and Mr. Stuart tried vainly to conceal
+a sense of uneasiness. But Chloe quietly beckoned
+the party from the room.</p>
+
+<p>“I’ll jes’ show the ladies upstairs,� she explained
+gently and her mistress made no objection.</p>
+
+<p>Miss Sallie would on no account sleep alone
+in such a dismal house. She shared a large
+chamber with Ruth and Bab. The countess
+asked to spend the night with Mollie and Grace,
+and Madame de Villiers, who was afraid of
+nothing, had a room to herself. Mr. Stuart
+went up to the third floor.</p>
+
+<p>“Let us talk and laugh and try to be cheerful,
+girls,� proposed the countess. “This poor
+old soul is quite harmless, I believe, and she
+seems very sad. Perhaps we may be able to
+cheer her a little.�</p>
+
+<p>“All right, my lovely countess,� replied Mollie.
+“Ghosts or no ghosts, we will do our best.
+But don’t count on me for much merriment.
+I’m a dreadful coward.� Mollie looked over
+her shoulder with a shudder.</p>
+
+<p>The countess and Grace laughed, but quickly
+their laugh died.</p>
+
+<p>The sound of weird music floated up through
+the dark hall. Their hostess, Miss Thorne, was
+playing the tall harp that stood in the parlor.
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_172'></a>172</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>“Goodness!� cried Miss Sallie, “what will
+that poor soul do next? I should not be in the
+least surprised if the entire departed family
+were given places at supper to-night.� Which
+was exactly what happened. Four empty chairs
+were left at the table.</p>
+
+<p>“Miss Thorne,� said Mr. Stuart, when they
+were all seated, “could you not be persuaded
+to visit the outer world? It would give my sister
+and me much pleasure if you would spend
+a few days with us at Palm Beach.�</p>
+
+<p>A spark of pleasure lit up the hostess’s faded
+eyes for an instant. Then she shook her head
+sadly.</p>
+
+<p>“You are most kind, sir, but I am much
+needed at home. Lucy, my sister, is quite delicate,
+you see. And Mama is an invalid.�</p>
+
+<p>Miss Sallie touched her brother’s foot under
+the table, as a signal to keep away from dangerous
+topics. But what topic was not dangerous?</p>
+
+<p>“How charmingly you play the harp, Miss
+Thorne,� ventured the countess, when they had
+somewhat recovered themselves.</p>
+
+<p>“Ah,� exclaimed the poor woman, smiling
+archly, “you must praise the right person, my
+dear. It was my sister Lucy who was playing.�</p>
+
+<p>Miss Sallie dropped her fork with a loud
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_173'></a>173</span>
+clatter, while Mollie slipped her hand into the countess’s
+and the other three girls linked their feet
+under the table, girl fashion.</p>
+
+<p>Jim, who, in an old black coat, was waiting
+on the table, smiled grimly and mumbled to
+himself.</p>
+
+<p>“But, young ladies,� cried Miss Thorne,
+“you are not eating.�</p>
+
+<p>As a matter of fact the supper was delicious;
+biscuits as light as snow flakes, broiled sea
+trout, potatoes roasted in their jackets and preserves
+in delicate cut glass bowls. But who
+could enjoy a banquet under such conditions?
+The two candles seemed to accentuate the blackness
+of the shadows which gathered at the edges
+of the room. The guests tried to laugh and
+talk, but gradually gloomy silence settled upon
+them. Miss Thorne appeared to have forgotten
+where she was and Mr. Stuart observing the
+uneasiness of the whole party remarked that
+as they had had a long day it would be well to
+retire early.</p>
+
+<p>As they were about to rise from the table a
+sudden exclamation from the countess who sat
+at the lower end of the table caused all eyes
+to turn toward her in startled inquiry. She was
+staring at the open window in fascinated terror,
+unable for the moment to do anything save point
+to the opening which was swathed in shadows.
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_174'></a>174</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>“A horrible old man!� she at last managed
+to articulate. “I saw him looking in at us!�</p>
+
+<p>“What old man?� demanded Mr. Stuart.</p>
+
+<p>“He was white haired and looked like a great
+ape,� she gasped.</p>
+
+<p>“Why that’s the man whom I drove out of
+your room the other night, Countess,� exclaimed
+Bab. “What can his object be in following
+you?�</p>
+
+<p>“Come, my man,� commanded Mr. Stuart,
+turning to the engineer who sat beside him,
+“and you too, Jim, we’ll search the grounds.
+I believe that this formidable old man can tell
+us something about the wrecking of the engine.
+Let’s get after him at once!�</p>
+
+<p>Old Jim lost no time in procuring lanterns,
+and a thorough search of the grounds was made.
+The women meantime remained in the dining
+room, but now that the first effects of their
+fright had worn off, they prepared to give their
+fearsome intruder a warm reception should he
+again show himself. Madame de Villiers
+moved her chair to one side of the open window,
+her heavy cane in both hands, ready for instant
+use. While Barbara took up her station at the
+other side grasping firmly the heavy silver teapot
+that had been in the Thorne family for generations.
+Ruth guarded the door at one end,
+brandishing ferociously a heavy carving knife
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_175'></a>175</span>
+she had appropriated from a set on the old
+fashioned side-board, while Mollie, bravely, held
+the fort, at the other door with the fork. The
+countess half laughing, half shuddering, clung
+to a heavy cut glass water bottle, while Miss
+Sallie had prepared to meet the enemy with a
+huge bottle of cayenne pepper, which she had
+taken from the old-fashioned silver castor.
+</p>
+<div class="figure">
+<img src="images/illus-174.jpg" alt="image"/>
+<p class="caption">The Countess Pointed Toward the Open Window.</p>
+</div>
+
+<p>
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_177'></a>177</span>
+“There is nothing like being prepared,� said
+Ruth with a hysterical laugh, after ten minutes
+had passed, and the enemy had not shown himself.
+“I’m going to get a chair and be comfortable.�
+Mollie followed suit, and the watchers
+sat valiantly alert, as the minutes dragged
+by.</p>
+
+<p>Miss Thorne chattered voluably to and about
+her family, paying very little attention to her
+strangely-behaved guests, while Chloe, the old
+servant, huddled in one corner, her eyes rolling
+with fright at every sound she heard.</p>
+
+<p>At last the welcome sound of men’s voices
+was heard and Mr. Stuart, followed by the engineer
+and old Jim, entered at Mollie’s door.</p>
+
+<p>“What kind of desperado organization is
+this?� he exclaimed, laughing in spite of himself
+at the ludicrous appearance this feminine vigilant
+committee made.</p>
+
+<p>“It’s war to the knife,� cried Ruth.</p>
+
+<p>“And the fork, too, I should say,� laughed
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_178'></a>178</span>
+her father, “also the teapot, and—what on earth
+are you cherishing so fondly, Sallie?�</p>
+
+<p>“Cayenne pepper,� responded Miss Sallie,
+“and I consider myself well armed, at that.�</p>
+
+<p>“I should rather think so,� agreed her
+brother. “However you are all safe in laying
+down your arms, for we have searched diligently,
+and can find no trace of the intruder.
+He evidently heard the countess and made a
+quick get away. You must pardon us, Madam,
+for stirring up your quiet home in this manner,�
+he said, bowing to Miss Thorne. “I trust we
+shall meet with no further disagreeable adventures.�</p>
+
+<p>“You have not disturbed either Lucy or me
+in the least,� declared the demented old woman
+graciously. “As for Papa and Mama they
+dearly love to have visitors.� She smiled
+sweetly and at once began a one-sided conversation
+with her departed parents.</p>
+
+<p>“Do take us away from her,� whispered Ruth
+to her father. “She has been addressing the
+shades of her family ever since you left us, and
+it’s getting on our nerves.�</p>
+
+<p>“With your kind permission, Miss Thorne,
+we shall retire,� said Mr. Stuart, and the seven
+tired women gladly followed him through the
+shadowy hall and up the wide stairs, to their
+respective sleeping rooms.
+</p>
+<div class='chapter'>
+<span class="pagenum pncolor"><a id="page_179"></a>179</span>
+<a id='chXVII'></a>
+<p class='cln0'>CHAPTER XVII</p>
+<p class='cln1'>THE MIDNIGHT INTRUDER</p>
+</div>
+
+
+<p>Once in their rooms the drooping spirits
+of the picnickers revived, somewhat. It
+was a fine night, the air warm and
+fragrant. The windows of the sleeping rooms
+were wide open and the moonlight streamed
+across the floor, filling the whole place with its
+soft radiance.</p>
+
+<p>“Oh look!� cried Grace, going over to the
+open window. “What a darling balcony! I
+believe the other rooms all open out on it too.
+Good-bye,� she called to Mollie and the countess,
+as she stepped nimbly over the sill. “I’m
+going to make a call.�</p>
+
+<p>Grace had hardly disappeared, before the
+countess went quickly to the door, closed it, then
+came back to Mollie, her finger on her lip.
+Drawing Mollie over to one corner of the room,
+where they could not be observed from the outside,
+the countess whispered. “Mademoiselle
+Mollie, I believe you love me and trust me, even
+more than do your friends, and because of this
+I am going to ask you to do me a very great
+favor.�</p>
+
+<p>Mollie’s blue eyes looked lovingly up into the
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_180'></a>180</span>
+dark eyes of the countess. So fervent was her
+feeling of adoration for this fascinating
+stranger that she was prepared to grant any
+favor that lay within her power. “I should
+dearly love to help you in any way I can,� she
+said earnestly. “You make me very, very
+happy.�</p>
+
+<p>The countess kissed her.</p>
+
+<p>“Dear child,� she continued, “the thing I am
+going to ask seems simple enough, but some day
+you will understand how much it means to me.
+Wait a moment,� she added almost under her
+breath. “There is some one whom I hold in
+such dread that, even in this desolate and far-away
+place, he or his confederate might be
+listening.�</p>
+
+<p>She looked about her cautiously, then went
+to the window and anxiously scanned the balcony.
+It was quite empty. Her eyes searched
+the long avenue leading to the grove that looked
+like a huge black spot in the moonlight. Then
+she returned to Mollie and said softly,
+“I am not afraid of ghosts, and neither are
+you, Mollie, I am sure, because there are no
+such things; but this place fills me with foreboding.
+It is so lonesome, so utterly dismal.
+What was that? I thought I heard a noise below.
+Did you hear anything?�</p>
+
+<p>“Perhaps it was Jim closing up for the
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_181'></a>181</span>
+night,� replied Mollie, pressing close to the
+countess for comfort. “But what was the favor?
+I will do anything for you.�</p>
+
+<p>“This is it,� answered the countess, her
+voice again dropping to a whisper. “Will you,
+for a few days, carry a paper for me? It is a
+very dangerous paper, dangerous, that is, because
+some one else wishes it, but it is a very
+valuable one to me because I may need it, and if
+you will keep it safely hidden until I do need it,
+you will not only be doing me a service but
+Mademoiselle Warren also.�</p>
+
+<p>Mollie looked puzzled. The countess’s words
+were shrouded in mystery.</p>
+
+<p>“Does it concern the Count de Sonde, too?�
+she asked breathlessly.</p>
+
+<p>“Yes,� replied the countess; “it concerns
+him very intimately. Will you do this for me,
+little Mollie? I know now that the paper is not
+safe either in my house or on me. It would be
+quite safe with you, however. Even my enemy
+would never think of that, and, if anything
+should happen to me, you may produce the
+paper at once. Give it to Mr. Stuart. He will
+know what should be done.�</p>
+
+<p>The countess took from her dress a square,
+flat chamois bag which fastened with a clasp
+and evidently contained a document of some
+sort.
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_182'></a>182</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>“Fasten it into your dress with this pin,�
+she said, “and keep the pin as a memento of
+our friendship.�</p>
+
+<p>And the pin, as Mollie saw later, was no ordinary
+affair, but a broad gold band on which
+was a beautifully enameled coat of arms.</p>
+
+<p>“Is this another secret session?� cried Ruth’s
+voice gayly from the window.</p>
+
+<p>The two conspirators started nervously.</p>
+
+<p>“Come into our room,� Ruth continued.
+“Papa has sent up the luncheon hamper. There
+are still some sandwiches and fruit left; likewise
+a box of candy. We were too frightened
+to have appetites at supper, but I think a little
+food, now, will cheer us mightily.�</p>
+
+<p>“This looks quite like a boarding-school
+spread,� exclaimed Miss Sallie as they gathered
+around the feast. “But it is really a good
+idea. I feel that this little midnight luncheon
+might help me keep up my courage until I get
+to sleep.�</p>
+
+<p>“What a jolly little feast,� cried the Countess
+Sophia. “I am quite beginning to take
+heart again after that fearful ordeal below. I
+had a feeling all the time that the chairs were
+not really empty.�</p>
+
+<p>“Goodness me!� cried Grace, “do change the
+subject, or we shall be afraid to go to bed at
+all.�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_183'></a>183</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>“And I move that we take to our couches
+at once,� said Ruth, “while we have the courage
+to do so. Madame de Villiers, are you not
+afraid to sleep alone?�</p>
+
+<p>“Not in the least, my dear. I am not afraid
+of the most courageous ghost that ever walked.
+I believe I will retire at once. I am very tired.�</p>
+
+<p>Taking one of the candles which stood in a
+row on the mantel, making a cheerful illumination,
+the stately old woman bade them good
+night, and the tapping of her stick resounded
+through the empty hall.</p>
+
+<p>Soon after Grace, Mollie and the countess
+stepped through the window, and down the balcony
+to their room.</p>
+
+<p>“You’d better close your shutters,� called
+Grace over her shoulder. “We’re going to.�</p>
+
+<p>“And lose all this glorious moonlight?�
+asked Ruth. “Never. This balcony is too high
+from the ground for any one to climb up, easily,
+and besides, old Jim is going to be on guard
+to-night. Aunt Sallie thinks we had better try
+to make ourselves comfortable without doing
+much undressing. Even if we don’t sleep very
+well to-night, we can make up for it when we
+get back to the hotel.� With these words Ruth
+blew out the candles and five minutes later, their
+shoes and outer clothing removed, she and Barbara
+and Miss Sallie were fast asleep.
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_184'></a>184</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>Grace and Mollie, however, struggled vainly
+with the heavy wooden shutters, but try as they
+might they could not succeed in closing them
+tightly. After some subdued laughter and many
+exclamations they abandoned their task in disgust,
+and blowing out their candles prepared
+themselves for sleep.</p>
+
+<p>At midnight Ruth awoke with a start. She
+had a distinct sensation that some one had been
+looking into her face. But the room was still
+flooded with moonlight, and she could see
+plainly that, except for her sleeping companions,
+no one was there. She turned over and
+closed her eyes again, but the sudden waking
+had driven sleep away.</p>
+
+<p>Was that a noise?</p>
+
+<p>Ruth held her breath and listened. There
+was not a sound except the regular breathing of
+Miss Sallie.</p>
+
+<p>Ruth lay with every nerve strained to catch
+the lightest footfall. In a moment it came again,
+very faint but still distinct. Something—some
+one—moved somewhere.</p>
+
+<p>She sat up in bed and touched Barbara
+lightly on the cheek.</p>
+
+<p>Barbara opened her eyes slowly then sat up.
+Ruth pointed to the next room. The two girls
+listened intently. Again there was the sound,
+a soft, a very soft footfall on a creaking board.
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_185'></a>185</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>Cautiously the two girls climbed from the bed
+and crept over to the door between the two
+rooms. On a small bed at the far side of the
+room lay the countess, sleeping soundly. Grace
+and Mollie also were fast asleep in the other
+bed. Suddenly Ruth gripped Bab’s arm. The
+eyes of both girls were riveted on the old fashioned
+dressing table in one corner of the room.
+Before it stood the same terrible old man that
+Bab had seen at the villa. He was examining
+minutely every thing on the dresser. Next he
+turned his attention to the girls’ walking suits
+which hung over the backs of the chairs. He
+searched the pockets of the coats, the linings,
+and even the hems of the skirts.</p>
+
+<p>“He is certainly looking for a paper,� Barbara
+thought, as she watched him make his
+systematic search, “and he certainly has something
+to do with the countess’s affairs.�</p>
+
+<p>Barbara’s mind reverted to the group she
+had seen on the hotel veranda, the night before.
+What was the explanation of it all? Was the
+countess really an impostor and why, when she
+evidently feared Monsieur Duval and ignored
+Mrs. De Lancey Smythe, did she hold interviews
+late at night with them? She had distinctly
+refused the “Automobile Girls’� invitations
+to the hotel, yet she had not refused to
+meet others there. And what part could this
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_186'></a>186</span>
+ferocious looking old man possibly have in the
+drama?</p>
+
+<p>All this passed rapidly through Bab’s mind
+as with her hand clasped tightly in Ruth’s the
+two girls watched the intruder with bated
+breath. To Bab there was something strangely
+familiar about him, his movements suggested
+some one she had seen before, yet she could find
+no place in her memory for him.</p>
+
+<p>Failing to find what he desired, the old man
+again turned toward the countess a look of indescribable
+menace on his face. He took a step
+toward her then—a sudden burst of weird music
+floated up from the gloomy drawing room.
+With a smothered exclamation the intruder
+whirled and making for the window swung himself
+over the ledge. Ruth clutched Barbara for
+support. She was trembling with fear.</p>
+
+<p>“Don’t be frightened, dear,� soothed Bab
+bravely. “That isn’t ghost music. It’s only
+Miss Thorne playing the harp. It’s an unearthly
+hour for music, but she couldn’t have
+begun to play at a more opportune moment,
+either. I believe that frightful old man thought
+it was ghost music. Just listen to it. It’s
+enough to give any one the creeps.�</p>
+
+<p>The demented old woman played on in a wailing
+minor key, and presently footsteps were
+heard coming down the hall. By this time
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_187'></a>187</span>
+Mollie, Grace and the countess were wide awake
+and seeing Bab and Ruth in their room demanded
+to know what had happened. A moment
+later Madame de Villiers and Miss Sallie,
+both fully dressed, entered the room.</p>
+
+<p>“No more sleep for me to-night,� announced
+Miss Stuart firmly. “I feel that the sooner
+morning comes and we get out of this house the
+better pleased I shall be.�</p>
+
+<p>At that instant a melancholy strain like the
+wail of a lost soul rose from down stairs. Then
+all was silent.</p>
+
+<p>“I begin to believe it is the departed spirit
+of her sister Lucy that executed that last passage,�
+shuddered the countess. “Come, my
+dears let us finish dressing. It will soon be
+morning and then surely some way will be provided
+for us to go back to Palm Beach.�</p>
+
+<p>“Shall we tell her?� whispered Ruth to Bab.</p>
+
+<p>“We’d better,� nodded Bab. “Then she will
+be constantly on her guard.�</p>
+
+<p>“Listen, everyone,� commanded Ruth. “We
+are going to tell you something but you mustn’t
+feel frightened. We think the countess should
+know it at once. You tell them about it, Bab.�</p>
+
+<p>Bab obediently began a recital of what had
+transpired after she and Ruth had been so suddenly
+wakened. The others listened in consternation
+to her story. The countess who
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_188'></a>188</span>
+turned very pale while Bab was speaking, looked
+appealingly at Madame de Villiers. The stern
+old woman was apparently much agitated. “He
+shall not harm the Countess Sophia,� she muttered,
+forgetful of those about her. “I will
+protect her even from him.�</p>
+
+<p>“Aunt Sallie, shall I call Father?� asked Ruth
+a few moments later. The seven women were
+seated about the room in silent dejection.</p>
+
+<p>“No, Ruth,� responded her aunt. “We will
+not waken him. A man that can sleep through
+a concert such as we were favored with deserves
+to be left in peace. It is after four
+o’clock now. I think we’ll let him sleep until
+six, at least. Then after breakfast, perhaps, he
+will be able to devise some means by which we
+may return to the hotel.�</p>
+
+<p>It was a very tired and sleepy band of picnickers
+that gathered around the Thorne breakfast
+table that morning, and breakfast was not
+over when the honk of an automobile horn was
+heard and a large touring car rolled up the
+avenue.</p>
+
+<p>“Hurrah!� shouted Ruth. “It’s Mr. Warren.
+Oh, but I’m glad to see him.�</p>
+
+<p>It was indeed Mr. Warren, who, when the
+party did not return that night, had taken the
+fastest launch he could find and made for the
+picnic ground. He had discovered the note, as
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_189'></a>189</span>
+Mr. Stuart had hoped, had returned to the hotel
+where the history of Thorne house and its mistress
+was not unknown and had come for them
+himself after a few hours sleep.</p>
+
+<p>“I should be happy and honored if you would
+all come again,� said Miss Thorne as she waved
+adieu to her guests from the front piazza, while
+Jim and Chloe bobbed and bowed and chuckled
+over the generous present they had each received
+from Mr. Stuart.</p>
+
+<p>As the automobile rolled down the avenue
+they caught a last glimpse of the mistress of
+Thorne House still waving her handkerchief, and
+in every heart was a feeling of tender sympathy
+for the little old woman whose present was so
+irrevocably linked to the past.</p>
+<div class='chapter'>
+<a id='chXVIII'></a>
+<p class='cln0'>CHAPTER XVIII</p>
+<p class='cln1'>THE WATER FÊTE</p>
+</div>
+
+
+<div>
+<p style='margin:0 auto 0 4ex'>“Roll along, roll along,</p>
+<p style='margin:0 auto 0 6ex'>O’er the waters so blue,</p>
+<p style='margin:0 auto 0 4ex'>We’re afloat, we’re afloat</p>
+<p style='margin:0 auto 0 6ex'>In our birch bark canoe,�</p>
+</div>
+
+<p>sang Grace’s high sweet voice as their boat
+bobbed gayly up and down with the little rippling
+waves of the lake.</p>
+
+<p>“That is a pretty song, my dear child,�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_190'></a>190</span>
+exclaimed Miss Sallie Stuart, from a cushioned
+seat in the stern of the boat, “but you should
+substitute ‘naphtha launch’ for canoe. Nothing
+would induce me to ride in one.�</p>
+
+<p>“The Count de Sonde is going to be at the
+fête in a canoe,� observed Maud Warren in
+the tone of one imparting a piece of valuable
+information. “He asked me to go with him, but
+Papa was unreasonable, as usual.�</p>
+
+<p>“In a canoe with that little foreigner!� cried
+Miss Sallie in amazement. “Does he know how
+to paddle?�</p>
+
+<p>“The count is an expert boatman,� replied
+Maud stiffly. She had mixed sensations of
+fear and dislike for Miss Sallie, although fear
+was the stronger sentiment of the two.</p>
+
+<p>“I imagine his swimming and his canoeing
+are about alike,� said Ruth aside to Barbara;
+“just paddling in shallow water.�</p>
+
+<p>The “Automobile Girls� were busily engaged
+in decorating their launch for the Venetian
+Fête, which was to take place that evening.
+The lake dotted with numbers of boats
+looked like an immense flower bed. Hundreds
+of craft of every land were anchored near the
+shore, each filled with gay parties of young
+people who were stringing up rows of Japanese
+lanterns, bunting and flags.</p>
+
+<p>“There’s not a boat on the lake that can
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_191'></a>191</span>
+compare with ours,� cried Mollie proudly, as she
+tacked the end of a festoon of small banners to
+the awning-pole, while Barbara gave a finishing
+touch by crossing the silk flags of the “Automobile
+Girls� on the bow.</p>
+
+<p>“If only the lanterns don’t catch fire this
+evening,� said Miss Sallie.</p>
+
+<p>“What a pessimist you are, Auntie, dearest!�
+exclaimed Ruth. “We can easily pitch them in
+the water if they do, and still be very handsome
+with our banners and things.�</p>
+
+<p>“Here comes the count,� cried Maud, who
+had ignored the conversation of the others and
+was busily scanning the multitudes of boats in
+search of her admirer.</p>
+
+<p>Her friends politely controlled a desire to
+laugh when they saw the count presently emerge
+from the boats along the shore in a small canoe
+that was decorated with one lantern hung from
+a bamboo stick in the bow, while the French flag
+waved triumphantly from the stern. The count,
+in white flannels, was working laboriously with
+the paddle. His little mustache twitched in an
+agony of exertion and occasionally he paused to
+wipe the perspiration from his brow.</p>
+
+<p>“The count is quite an athlete, isn’t he,
+Maud?� asked Mollie wickedly. “I should think
+he might lead the parade to-night.�</p>
+
+<p>But Maud was not listening. Her whole
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_192'></a>192</span>
+attention was concentrated on the canoe, which
+was making straight for the launch.</p>
+
+<p>“Here I am, Count,� she cried, waving her
+handkerchief to the young Frenchman, who, as
+soon as he espied the boat full of girls, had begun
+to paddle with a grand flourish, at the same
+time casting melting glances in the direction of
+Maud. But he had not calculated on the distance
+between the canoe and the launch, and a
+final, fancy stroke with the paddle, sent the frail
+little boat scurrying over the water.</p>
+
+<p>It collided with the larger boat, and in an instant
+turned turtle, dragging the flag of the
+French ignominiously into the depths while the
+discomfited son of France, clung to the side of
+his boat, and wildly called for help.</p>
+
+<p>At first the girls were speechless with
+laughter and the last of the De Sondes received
+neither sympathy nor aid. Even Maud joined
+in the merriment, while the enraged nobleman
+sputtered angrily in French and denounced
+America and everything in it as fit only for pigs.</p>
+
+<p>Presently Barbara wiped the tears from her
+eyes and threw out a life preserver to the unfortunate
+man.</p>
+
+<p>“There, Count,� she called, “you can’t sink
+as long as you hold on to that. We’ll see if we
+can’t right your boat, and you can paddle back
+to shore.�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_193'></a>193</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>“I’m sorry we can’t offer you the hospitality
+of our boat,� said Miss Sallie, “but we are anchored,
+you see, and the engineer is ashore. Besides,
+I am afraid your wet clothing would spoil
+our decorations.�</p>
+
+<p>The count, however, was too enraged to remember
+any English. He shook his fist at the
+upturned canoe and poured forth a perfect torrent
+of maledictions against it.</p>
+
+<p>Just then a passing launch paused and gave
+the needed assistance, taking the count on board
+and towing the canoe to shore. As the little
+boat was righted an envelope that had evidently
+fallen from the count’s pocket, floated past them
+in the current.</p>
+
+<p>“You dropped something,� called Barbara,
+but the launch had already started for shore
+and the count did not hear her. Using the crook
+of her parasol Ruth tried to fish it out. As she
+drew it to the side of the boat it sank out of
+sight but not before she had read the inscription
+on it, written in an angular foreign-looking
+handwriting: “To Madame La Comtesse Sophia
+von Stolberg.�</p>
+
+<p>Barbara, too, saw it, and so did Mollie, whose
+face flushed crimson with the memory of what
+her beloved countess had said to her that night
+on the balcony of Thorne House. At that very
+moment, pinned inside of Mollie’s white silk
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_194'></a>194</span>
+blouse, was the dangerous paper which “concerned
+the count very intimately.�</p>
+
+<p>Was it about that mysterious document that
+he was now writing to the countess?</p>
+
+<p>For the first time Mollie felt the shadow of
+a doubt cross her mind. It was only a tiny
+speck of a doubt, but it left its impression, try
+as she would to shake it off.</p>
+
+<p>Ruth and Barbara exchanged glances, but
+said nothing. They had seen enough to know
+that some sort of correspondence was being secretly
+carried on between the Countess von
+Stolberg and the Count de Sonde. If Maud
+were to marry the count she would deeply regret
+it, the Countess Sophia had said.</p>
+
+<p>Strangely enough, this speech came back to
+each of the three girls at the same moment.</p>
+
+<p>Ruth felt that perhaps they had rushed too
+quickly into an intimacy with the countess. For
+the first time Mollie was inclined to be a little
+suspicious. While Barbara who had even more
+evidence against the Countess Sophia tried
+vainly to fit together the pieces of this most mysterious
+puzzle.</p>
+
+<p style="font-size:smaller">&#160;</p>
+
+<p>“Well, fair and beautiful ladies, are you quite
+ready for a sail on the Grand Canal? Have you
+your wraps and bonnets? Is Grace’s guitar on
+hand?� called Mr. Stuart that evening, after
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_195'></a>195</span>
+dinner, rapping on three doors one after the
+other.</p>
+
+<p>“In a minute!� called a chorus of voices from
+the three rooms, while Mr. Stuart put on a look
+of resigned patience and waited for the girls
+to appear. At length, tired of waiting, he
+strolled toward the elevator when Marian De
+Lancey Smythe hurried along the corridor.</p>
+
+<p>She averted her face when she saw Mr. Stuart,
+for Marian had sedulously kept out of sight for
+a number of days, and they had wondered not a
+little at it.</p>
+
+<p>“Why, Miss Marian,� called the kind-hearted
+man, who had always felt an interest in the
+strange young girl, “aren’t you going to see the
+water fête to-night?�</p>
+
+<p>“I’m afraid not, Mr. Stuart,� she replied,
+her lips trembling a little, partly from loneliness
+and partly because people were not often
+kind to her. “Mama is going with Mr. Duval
+and some friends, but I didn’t care to go with
+them.�</p>
+
+<p>“Very well, Miss Marian; you must go with
+us, then. Get your wraps and meet us on the
+piazza.�</p>
+
+<p>And ten minutes later, her eyes alight with
+pleasure, Marian made one of the party of girls
+who presently found themselves floating in the
+long procession of illuminated boats on the lake.
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_196'></a>196</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>All the hotels had emptied themselves upon
+the lake front, and hundreds of boats had already
+filled and were forming in line for the
+water. The moon would not be up until very
+late, but the place was aglow with Japanese lanterns,
+which decorated the launches and rowboats
+and hung in festoons along the boat landings.</p>
+
+<p>The girls had hardly got their lanterns lit
+when there was a burst of music, and the procession
+began to wind its sinuous way about the
+lake.</p>
+
+<p>“The fireworks will begin in a moment,
+girls,� said Mr. Warren, “and then you will be
+a part of a wonderful spectacle to those on
+shore.�</p>
+
+<p>Certainly the Stuart boat was one of the most
+picturesque of all the craft that floated in the
+parade. The glow of the lanterns made a soft
+illumination about the four young girls, each of
+whom wore a long broadcloth cape, a final gift
+from Mr. Stuart before leaving Chicago. Barbara’s
+was her favorite dark red, Ruth’s was
+pink, Mollie’s her own particular blue and
+Grace’s a delicate lavender.</p>
+
+<p>“Daughter,� continued Mr. Warren, turning
+to Maud who in an elaborate white silk evening
+wrap, was leaning languidly back in her seat,
+“aren’t you feeling well to-night?�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_197'></a>197</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>“Oh, perfectly well, Papa,� replied Maud,
+resting her chin on her hand and looking out
+across the fleet of boats moving slowly along
+the shore. “But spectacles of this sort are so
+childish and tiresome, I think. They do bore
+me—oh, there’s the count,� she cried, interrupting
+herself.</p>
+
+<p>Her father looked so grieved and annoyed
+that Mr. Stuart’s heart was filled with compassion
+for his old friend.</p>
+
+<p>“See what a good time the other girls are
+having,� went on Mr. Warren, in a pleading
+tone. “Look how jolly they are in their bright
+capes. I wish you would get one, daughter.
+These grown-up things make you look so much
+older than you really are.�</p>
+
+<p>He pressed the girl’s hand but she drew away
+with a petulant expression.</p>
+
+<p>“Please don’t, Papa. You know how I detest
+public demonstrations.�</p>
+
+<p>“Oh-h-h!� cried the others.</p>
+
+<p>A sky rocket had exploded and thousands of
+stars hung for an instant suspended in mid-air.
+Then an entire artillery of Roman candles
+seemed to be let loose at once. There was a
+blare of trumpets, a grand burst of music and
+the gorgeous water pageant was outlined against
+the sky like an illuminated picture.</p>
+
+<p>Other boats began dropping out of line after
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_198'></a>198</span>
+the music had stopped, and Mr. Stuart ordered
+the engineer to run farther out into the lake
+where the illumination could be seen to better
+advantage. Grace struck a chord on her guitar
+and began to sing: “’Tis night on Venice
+waters,� when Marian, to the surprise of the
+others, suddenly joined in with a sweet contralto
+voice.</p>
+
+<p>“Why, Marian, I never dreamed you could
+sing like that,� exclaimed Ruth, when the song
+was done.</p>
+
+<p>Marian blushed, but said nothing. She had
+hardly spoken during the whole evening.</p>
+
+<p>The air was full of music that night and the
+sound of laughter and singing floated across the
+lake from scores of other boats. The strains of
+the “Marseillaise� came to them from a launch
+that Maud had been watching for some time.</p>
+
+<p>“I know whose voice that is,� said Barbara.
+“It’s Monsieur Duval’s.�</p>
+
+<p>“It is, I think,� replied Ruth, “although the
+boat is too far away for us to see him plainly.�</p>
+
+<p>Marian drew a scarf over her head and
+crouched down in her seat.</p>
+
+<p>“Could she be afraid of her own mother?�
+wondered Barbara, for Mrs. De Lancey Smythe
+was easily recognized as one of the occupants
+of the boat. The count, who was playing on a
+tinkling little mandolin, sat beside her. As the
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_199'></a>199</span>
+boat drew nearer they noticed another figure
+wrapped in a long blue broadcloth cape. It was
+that of a woman, sitting with her back to them.
+A scarf concealed her head and face.</p>
+
+<p>“Barbara,� whispered Ruth, “are we dreaming
+or is it the Countess Sophia?�</p>
+
+<p>Barbara strained her eyes to distinguish the
+figure. Mollie and Grace also had seen the
+familiar wrap and poor little Mollie’s face
+burned with something very like mortification.</p>
+
+<p>The boat skimmed lightly over the water and
+in a moment only the lantern at its bow could
+be seen swinging in the blackness.</p>
+
+<p>“It looks like the countess,� whispered Barbara
+briefly in reply. “Marian,� she said,
+turning to the other girl who had closed her eyes
+as though she wished to shut out the sight of
+the other boat, “we just saw your mother go
+past with Monsieur Duval and the count, and
+we thought—we were almost certain we recognized
+the other person in the boat. Did you notice
+who it was?�</p>
+
+<p>Marian opened her eyes and looked straight
+into Barbara’s.</p>
+
+<p>“I am sorry, Barbara,� she said sadly, “but
+I can’t answer that question to-night.�
+</p>
+<div class='chapter'>
+<span class="pagenum pncolor"><a id="page_200"></a>200</span>
+<a id='chXIX'></a>
+<p class='cln0'>CHAPTER XIX</p>
+<p class='cln1'>RED DOMINOS</p>
+</div>
+
+
+<p>The water fête a thing of the past, the
+Warrens’ domino ball became the excitement
+of the hour.</p>
+
+<p>The “Automobile Girls� were talking over their
+costumes when there came a rap on their door.</p>
+
+<p>Grace responded, to find the corridor empty;
+but at her feet lay a sealed envelope addressed
+to Barbara, who hastily tore it open and read
+aloud the enclosed note.</p>
+
+<blockquote>
+<p>“Maud and the Count have planned to elope during the
+domino ball. At midnight Maud and her chaperon will steal
+out of the side entrance of the hotel. The chaperon will wear
+a black domino, but will remain in her room until ten minutes
+before midnight, when she will go to the veranda, meet Maud,
+and the two will go to the east entrance of the hotel grounds,
+where they will be met by the count with an automobile. They
+will go to the village and be married there. Arrangements
+have been made and the license secured. Maud will wear a red
+silk domino and a black mask. Just over her heart will be a
+small black silk heart the size of the one enclosed. I promised
+to warn you should anything serious arise, and have done so
+at great personal risk. Stop the elopement if you can without
+outside aid. Some day I will explain why.</p>
+
+<p style="text-align:right;">“M. S.�</p>
+</blockquote>
+
+<p>“‘M. S.’ Marian Smythe. She is a good
+scout, girls,� said Ruth. “But I didn’t think
+that Maud would go so far as this.�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_201'></a>201</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>“This pattern for the heart—I imagine that
+Marian is suggesting that we all wear dominos
+exactly like Maud’s. But why?� put in Barbara.</p>
+
+<p>“We’ll take that step in the dark, for Father
+is waiting now to telegraph for the silk to make
+our dominos, and discuss details later.�</p>
+
+<p>“I did want a pink domino,� sighed Mollie.
+“But you’re right, Ruth; and the count will be
+a dizzy man before we’re through with him!�</p>
+
+<p>“Won’t the count be suspicious on seeing five
+Mauds and change his plans?� asked Grace.</p>
+
+<p>“He’ll not see five Mauds. There will be a
+big crowd at the ball, and four of the Mauds
+will carefully keep out of one another’s way,�
+explained Ruth.</p>
+
+<p>It was after the girls had gone to bed that
+night that the full answer came to Ruth, so she
+aroused Barbara to tell her of the plan.</p>
+
+<p>“I have it, Bab! We’ll switch couples on
+the count! I’m sorry, but you’ll have to take
+the risk, for you’re the only one tall enough to
+represent Maud. I’m sure that Mrs. De Lancey
+Smythe is to be the chaperon on the occasion,
+and if we can persuade Aunt Sallie—and I
+think we can—to take her place, our Count de
+Sonde will find himself with the wrong pair on
+his hands—and, oh, Bab, shan’t we have fun
+seeing the count rage!�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_202'></a>202</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>It was a brief statement of the plan, but Barbara
+understood.</p>
+
+<p>“Maud will not be easy to fool, and what if
+the count gets the right pair?�</p>
+
+<p>“Just before the hour set, one of us will get a
+note to Mrs. Smythe changing the place of
+meeting. There—at the new place—Maud and
+her chaperon will wait in vain for her count,
+who will be eloping with the wrong couple.�</p>
+
+<p>“It leaves many loopholes for failure, but I
+can think of no better way; so I’m for it if your
+Aunt Sallie consents.�</p>
+
+<p>“Monsieur Duval is the unknown X of the
+problem,� stated Ruth slowly, “but that’s one
+of the many chances we’ll have to take.�</p>
+
+<p>At last it was the night of the ball.</p>
+
+<p>“How lovely!�</p>
+
+<p>One of the five red dominos paused on the
+threshold of the ball room, almost breathless
+with admiration. Glowing lights, exotic decorations,
+swaying, brilliantly clad figures moving
+to perfect dance music, made indeed an entrancing
+scene.</p>
+
+<p>“Yes, lovely, but lovelier outside. Shall we
+go into the garden?� whispered a voice in the
+ear of the little red domino.</p>
+
+<p>“Not yet,� she responded, and sped away
+among the dancers.</p>
+
+<p>“Mademoiselle,� whispered a voice that
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_203'></a>203</span>
+made the blood of a second red domino tingle,
+“is it all arranged?�</p>
+
+<p>“Yes,� she answered under her breath.</p>
+
+<p>“You won’t fail us?� whispered the other.</p>
+
+<p>“No,� she replied quietly, but there was a
+threat in his tone that boded evil. Then this
+red domino slipped away in the crowd.</p>
+
+<p>Meanwhile, a third red domino was peering
+from behind a screen of palms when she felt
+her arm seized and, turning, encountered the
+angry little mask that had been pursuing red
+dominos until his brain reeled.</p>
+
+<p>“Mademoiselle,� he hissed, “you are cruel!
+Why do you avoid me so?�</p>
+
+<p>“Ah, Count, can’t you wait so short a time?�
+and the third red domino was lost in the crowd.</p>
+
+<p>The fourth red domino had been amusing herself
+like a wilful butterfly on a summer’s day.
+But it was getting late, and she paused at length
+to look about her. As she passed a grotto in
+the garden, formed by palms and orange trees,
+she heard the low chatter of voices speaking
+French. A vine-covered trellis screened her
+from view. One of the voices she recognized as
+Monsieur Duval’s. She heard him say:</p>
+
+<p>“In three quarters of an hour we shall start.
+The maid tells me the officer is asleep. She
+saw to that. The young one is on the veranda
+with the older one, and they never retire until
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_204'></a>204</span>
+after midnight. We must have that paper to-night,
+even though we use violence.� The
+fourth red domino did not wait for more.</p>
+
+<p>“I must find Father,� she told herself.
+“How shall I ever get him in time? They’re
+talking of the countess, and Monsieur Duval intends
+to go to the villa!�</p>
+
+<p>But what of the fifth red domino, the hostess
+of the great ball?</p>
+
+<p>Time had hung rather heavily on her hands.
+No one recognized her, and, not being a graceful
+dancer, she was somewhat neglected.</p>
+<div class='chapter'>
+<a id='chXX'></a>
+<p class='cln0'>CHAPTER XX</p>
+<p class='cln1'>CONCLUSION</p>
+</div>
+
+
+<p>At about half-past eleven Barbara concluded
+that she had better deliver the
+letter to Mrs. De Lancey Smythe. Summoning
+a bellboy, she went to the woman’s
+room. On the way she showed the boy a dollar
+bill.</p>
+
+<p>“This will be yours,� she said, “if you do
+exactly as I tell you. If, when you deliver this
+note, the recipient should ask who gave it to
+you, say ‘some one in a domino,’ then come
+away quickly. Do you understand?�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_205'></a>205</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>“Yes, ma’am,� replied the boy, his eyes on
+the dollar bill.</p>
+
+<p>In a few minutes the room was reached. Mrs.
+De Lancey Smythe, in a black silk domino and
+mask, responded to the knock on the door.</p>
+
+<p>“Now,� whispered Barbara, who kept out
+of sight, and the boy delivered the note which
+read:</p>
+
+<p>“Meet me at the Casino gate. Same time.
+Have found it necessary to change meeting
+place.�</p>
+
+<p>“Who gave you this, boy?�</p>
+
+<p>“Some one in a domino,� he replied, turning
+away.</p>
+
+<p>“Wait! What did the person say?�</p>
+
+<p>“Just ‘take this note to room 601 and give it
+to the lady there.’�</p>
+
+<p>“It’s from the count,� and, satisfied, she reentered
+the room.</p>
+
+<p>Meanwhile, Ruth, forgetting Maud Warren,
+searched frantically for her father. In and out
+of corridors, smoking and supper rooms, ball
+room, verandas, and garden she hurried. The
+recollection of Maud returned, however, when
+over the hum of talk and laughter the strains
+of the “Marseillaise� floated out.</p>
+
+<p>“In honor of De Sonde,� thought Ruth contemptuously.</p>
+
+<p>Some one began to sing, and the place soon
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_206'></a>206</span>
+rang with the notes of the stirring French song.
+People began throwing confetti, and the air was
+flecked with the bright-colored stuff. It was
+midnight.</p>
+
+<p>No one noticed two red dominos, each accompanied
+by one in black, steal from different
+doors of the hotel and disappear in the
+dark.</p>
+
+<p>Ruth finally found her father standing in a
+doorway, talking to a little red domino.</p>
+
+<p>“Father! I overheard Mr. Duval and some
+accomplices planning to rob the countess of a
+valuable paper to-night! Do send help at
+once!�</p>
+
+<p>“Paper! Oh, Mr. Stuart, it must be the one
+the countess entrusted to me,� and Mollie
+pulled from her bosom a chamois bag.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Stuart took a paper from the bag and
+glanced through it. Only a few minutes later
+he and four officers were speeding toward the
+villa of the countess.</p>
+
+<p>Meanwhile, Miss Stuart and Barbara had
+been assisted into an automobile waiting at the
+east entrance. As they neared the station Barbara
+became nervous. Was the chauffeur a
+confederate of the plotters or had he been hired
+to make the run knowing nothing of the details?</p>
+
+<p>Before the car had come to a full stop the
+count leaped out and turned to help his
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_207'></a>207</span>
+companions alight. Barbara leaned forward and
+said sharply to the chauffeur:</p>
+
+<p>“Return at once to the hotel without the
+gentleman. Ask no questions. You will be answerable
+to Mr. Stuart for any treachery.�</p>
+
+<p>The car disappeared in the darkness, leaving
+the count dancing and gesticulating in anger.</p>
+
+<p>When Mr. Stuart and the officers entered the
+drawing room of the countess’s villa they saw
+the old man who had before menaced the two
+women standing threateningly in front of them.
+Behind him was another man, evidently ready
+to respond to any command of the old man.</p>
+
+<p>“The paper you seek is not here, Monsieur,�
+said the countess proudly.</p>
+
+<p>“I say it is here! Give it to me at once!�</p>
+
+<p>“Officers, this is your man! Take him!�
+shouted Mr. Stuart.</p>
+
+<p>Two of the officers seized and handcuffed the
+second man, but the old man with surprising
+agility leaped from the room, and the officers
+could find not the slightest trace of him.</p>
+
+<p>“Ah, Mr. Stuart,� said the countess, “I do
+not know what chance brought you to my rescue,
+but help was greatly needed and I am grateful.�</p>
+
+<p>“Ruth overheard a talk this evening and sent
+us here to see if we could serve you. The plot
+was instigated by Monsieur Duval.�
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_208'></a>208</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>“That old man was Monsieur Duval himself.
+He is a very dangerous enemy to have.�</p>
+
+<p>“That I already know, Countess. After we
+learned of your danger, Mollie gave me the
+paper you had put in her care. It was hardly
+prudent to give such a document to a young girl.
+I think we are entitled to an explanation.�</p>
+
+<p>“Ah, please not to-night, Monsieur! But
+may I ask you to bring Miss Stuart and the girls
+here to-morrow afternoon? Then I shall be
+glad to tell you my story.�</p>
+
+<p>“Very well,� replied Mr. Stuart stiffly, displeased
+at the countess’ lack of frankness.</p>
+
+<p>On Mr. Stuart’s return to the hotel the girls
+overwhelmed him with questions and called
+eagerly for a glimpse of the mysterious paper.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Stuart unfolded the document. It was
+signed by the Prefect of Police of Paris and
+stamped with the official seal. Two photographs
+were pasted to the sheet and under each
+was a description of the man.</p>
+
+<p>“The count and Monsieur Duval!� gasped
+Ruth.</p>
+
+<p>From the paper the girls learned that Duval
+was a French criminal who had served several
+terms in prison, but who was usually clever
+enough to escape detection. His real name was
+Jacques Dupin. The “count,� whose name was
+Latour, was merely a tool of Dupin’s.
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_209'></a>209</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>“This says,� cried Ruth excitedly, scanning
+the paper, “that Dupin can assume any disguise
+he wishes. He is a linguist and a trained
+actor and is known as Gentilhomme Jacques, or
+Gentleman Jack. He plays only for big
+stakes.�</p>
+
+<p>“How did the countess become involved in
+this, Mr. Stuart?� asked Barbara, and at the
+question Mollie’s pretty face clouded.</p>
+
+<p>“The countess has asked us to the villa to-morrow
+afternoon to offer an explanation,� replied
+Mr. Stuart shortly.</p>
+
+<p>At noon the next day Ruth rushed up to her
+companions with exciting news.</p>
+
+<p>“Girls, the count, or Latour, was arrested
+this morning when about to board a train and
+has confessed that he had plotted to marry
+Maud, obtain control of her fortune, and then
+desert her! Duval was the brains of the plot.
+Mrs. Smythe was helping them, and, listen girls,
+she’s been arrested as a professional swindler!�</p>
+
+<p>“Oh, poor Marian!� exclaimed Mollie sympathetically,
+to be echoed by the others. But
+just at that moment Marian came up to them,
+her face radiant.</p>
+
+<p>“Oh, girls, such news! Mrs. Smythe accused
+me last night of spoiling her plans, and in her
+anger she let out that she’s not my mother! My
+mother, who died when I was a baby, was her
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_210'></a>210</span>
+neighbor. Some money was left me and Mrs.
+Smythe was made my guardian. She used the
+money, of course, and kept the truth from me.
+My name is Marian Dale. I’m poor, but I’m
+free for the first time in my life, and I’ll work!�</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Stuart had come up and heard the last
+part of the tale; so he now broke in:</p>
+
+<p>“You are not friendless, my girl. You must
+stay here as my guest with my other girls for
+a while, then we’ll discuss your future.�</p>
+
+<p>“You are kind, Mr. Stuart. But I can’t be a
+burden. I must find work at once. But, oh,
+I’m grateful to you!� and her eyes were misty.</p>
+
+<p>“I must turn my other girls on you, I see.�</p>
+
+<p>Maud Warren was a changed girl when she
+realized the danger her headstrong conduct had
+placed her in. Her father, feeling that a real
+reformation had begun, asked Marian Dale to
+come to them as Maud’s companion and encourage
+her in a saner view of life. This appealed
+to Maud, and the two girls became close friends,
+much to the happiness of both.</p>
+
+<p>That afternoon when the “Automobile Girls�
+arrived at the countess’s villa they were introduced
+to the Baron von Lichtenberg, who, the
+countess told them, bore a message from her
+father.</p>
+
+<p>To the girls’ amazement and fluttered delight,
+the countess was in reality the Princess Sophia
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_211'></a>211</span>
+Adele von Nichtenstern. The princess wished
+to marry the Count de Sonde; and when her
+father insisted that she marry instead a noble
+of advanced years for reasons of state, she fled
+to America under the protection of her cousin
+and second mother, the Baroness von Lichtenberg,
+whom the girls knew as Madame de
+Villiers.</p>
+
+<p>“But since then, my friends, my father has
+met the Count de Sonde and he has also learned
+how greatly the man for whom he intended me
+has persecuted me, so he has given his consent
+to my marriage with the count. You can imagine
+my consternation when I met the false
+Count de Sonde and learned that he was trying
+to marry your friend Maud. I then sent to
+Paris and learned the identity of these two men.
+I wish to tell you, too, that both Monsieur Duval
+and my other persecutors have been using my
+maid, and that on several occasions she has
+taken my clothes and impersonated me.</p>
+
+<p>“Mr. Stuart, I did wrong to involve the
+pretty Mollie in my affairs; but my father had
+not then forgiven me and I feared to have him
+learn at that time of my whereabouts. Will
+you forgive me?�</p>
+
+<p>The princess was to start for home almost immediately
+under the protection of the Baron
+and Baroness von Lichtenberg, but before
+<span class='pagenum pncolor'><a id='page_212'></a>212</span>
+leaving Florida she exacted a promise from each of
+the “Automobile Girls� and from Maud Warren
+as well that they would visit her when she
+should become the wife of the Count de Sonde.</p>
+
+<p>After the princess had left Palm Beach a
+package was handed to Miss Stuart. In it was
+a gift for each of the Automobile Girls. Mollie
+received a handsome bracelet beautifully ornamented
+and set with jewels. Inside was inscribed
+“S von N.—F. de S.�</p>
+
+<p>“Oh,� cried Mollie, “the count gave her this!
+How she must have loved it, and she gave it to
+me!�</p>
+
+<p>Barbara’s gift was a gold filigree star of exquisite
+workmanship; Ruth’s a splendid oriental
+scarf embroidered in gold and silver threads,
+and Grace’s a beautiful gold chain.</p>
+
+<p>The “Automobile Girls� spent two more gay
+and happy weeks at Palm Beach, then turned
+their faces northward once more, each going to
+her own home.</p>
+
+<p>It was not until the next winter that they
+were together again, and what befell them then
+is told in the sixth and last volume of “<span class='sc'>The
+Automobile Girls Series</span>� under the title,
+“<span class='sc'>The Automobile Girls at Washington</span>; Or,
+Checkmating the Plots of Foreign Spies.�</p>
+
+
+<p style="text-align:center;">THE END</p>
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+<pre>
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Automobile Girls at Palm Beach, by 
+Laura Dent Crane
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+</body>
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+Project Gutenberg's The Automobile Girls at Palm Beach, by Laura Dent Crane
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: The Automobile Girls at Palm Beach
+       Proving Their Mettle Under Southern Skies
+
+Author: Laura Dent Crane
+
+Release Date: November 24, 2011 [EBook #38123]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ASCII
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE AUTOMOBILE GIRLS AT PALM BEACH ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Roger Frank and the Online Distributed
+Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net
+
+
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration: The Girls Sat On the Broad Piazza.]
+
+
+
+
+THE AUTOMOBILE GIRLS AT PALM BEACH
+
+OR
+
+PROVING THEIR METTLE UNDER SOUTHERN SKIES
+
+By
+
+LAURA DENT CRANE
+
+  Author of The Automobile Girls at Newport, The Automobile
+  Girls in the Berkshires, The Automobile Girls Along the
+  Hudson, The Automobile Girls at Chicago, etc.
+
+Illustrated
+
+PHILADELPHIA
+
+HENRY ALTEMUS COMPANY
+
+
+
+
+Copyright, 1913, by
+
+Howard E. Altemius
+
+PRINTED IN U. S. A.
+
+
+
+
+CONTENTS
+
+        I. The Land of Dreams                            7
+       II. A West Indian Squall                         21
+      III. The Fair Unknown                             32
+       IV. The Compact                                  43
+        V. The Daughter of Mrs. De Lancey Smythe        51
+       VI. The Countess Sophia                          64
+      VII. Tea in the Cocoanut Grove                    75
+     VIII. The Warning                                  87
+       IX. A Case of Mistaken Identity                  95
+        X. The Secret Signals                          105
+       XI. Wheels Within Wheels                        113
+      XII. Maud Refuses to Be Rescued                  123
+     XIII. A Surprise Party                            132
+      XIV. The Plot Thickens                           147
+       XV. Caught Napping                              154
+      XVI. Welcome and Unwelcome Guests                166
+     XVII. The Midnight Intruder                       179
+    XVIII. The Water Fete                              189
+      XIX. Red Dominos                                 200
+       XX. Conclusion                                  204
+
+
+
+
+The Automobile Girls at Palm Beach
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I
+
+THE LAND OF DREAMS
+
+
+"I don't believe anything could be more lovely than this," exclaimed
+Mollie Thurston, leaning back in a wicker chair on the piazza of one of
+the largest hotels at Palm Beach.
+
+"Right you are!" replied her friend, Ruth Stuart, as she gazed across
+the still blue waters of Lake Worth dotted with pleasure boats. "I can't
+decide whether I should like to ride in the automobile, or sail, or just
+sit in the cocoanut grove and listen to the music. Life seems so easy
+under a blue sky like this, and there are so many things to do that it
+is hard to make a choice."
+
+"What do people usually do at this hour?" Grace Carter asked. "A woman I
+talked with on the train told me there was a programme of amusements for
+every hour at Palm Beach."
+
+"Well, my dear, you have only to gaze about you and see for yourself. It
+is now high noon," answered Ruth, consulting her watch.
+
+Grace glanced quickly about her. All along the broad piazza, and under
+awnings on the lawn, a gay company of men, women and young people were
+sipping delicious iced fruit drinks in tall, thin glasses.
+
+"It is undoubtedly the witching hour for pineapple lemonades," said
+Ruth. "And we must be in the fashion immediately. Papa," she called to
+her father, who was immersed in the pages of a New York newspaper
+several days old, "you are not doing your duty by us. We are getting
+awfully thirsty."
+
+Mr. Stuart, clad in white, and looking the picture of comfort, smiled
+lazily over his paper at his daughter. "Order what you like, my dear. Am
+I not always at the command of the 'Automobile Girls'? What do you wish,
+little lady?" he asked, turning to Barbara Thurston, who had been lost
+in a day-dream and had heard nothing of the conversation.
+
+"I haven't any wish," responded Barbara. "I am too happy to be troubled
+with wishes."
+
+"Then suppose I wish for you, Bab?" suggested Ruth. "Go back to your own
+sweet dreams. I'll wake you when the wish comes true."
+
+Presently the four girls were sipping their fruit lemonades like the
+rest of the world at Palm Beach. On the breeze the sound of music was
+wafted to them from a morning concert in the distance.
+
+"Where is Aunt Sallie?" Ruth suddenly asked, again interrupting her
+father's reading. "This place has bewitched me so that I have forgotten
+even my beloved aunt. This is the land of dreams, I do believe. We are
+all spirits from some happy world."
+
+"Here comes your spirit aunt," returned Mr. Stuart, smiling. "She has
+evidently been spirited away by some other friendly spirits."
+
+The girls laughed as they saw the substantial figure of Miss Sallie
+Stuart strolling down the piazza. She was walking between two other
+persons, one a tall, middle-aged man with dark hair slightly tinged with
+gray, the other a young woman. They were all three talking animatedly.
+
+"Girls, look!" exclaimed Ruth, in suppressed excitement. "Aunt Sallie is
+with that Maud Warren. You remember we met her at Lenox, Bab, and she
+tried to ride you down in the famous race. Delightful creature--to keep
+away from." Ruth gave a contemptuous sniff, then added. "That nice
+looking man must be her father."
+
+"She looks as haughty as ever, and then some more," said Mollie
+aggressively.
+
+The girls giggled softly, then straightened their faces for the trio was
+almost upon them, and it was not safe to indulge in further
+conversation.
+
+After seeing that his charges were supplied with lemonade, Mr. Stuart
+had returned to his paper.
+
+"Robert," broke in Miss Sallie's dignified voice, "this is Mr. Warren
+and his daughter Miss Warren. They----"
+
+But at the first word Mr. Stuart had risen and the two men were
+enthusiastically shaking hands.
+
+"Why, Warren," exclaimed Mr. Stuart, "I had no idea that you were in
+this part of the world. The last time I saw you, you were ranching out
+in Idaho."
+
+"Quite true," replied Mr. Warren, smiling, "but that was ten years ago.
+A great many things have happened since then." He sighed and looked out
+over the blue lake. "Mrs. Warren died the next year," he said slowly.
+"Maud and I are alone."
+
+"I am deeply sorry to hear of your great loss," sympathized Mr. Stuart
+and his fine face saddened. He too had known that loss.
+
+Turning to Maud who had been exchanging rather distant greetings with
+the four girls, he said pleasantly. "So this is Maud. She was a little
+girl in short dresses when last I saw her. How these children do grow
+up."
+
+Maud smiled frigidly and for the fraction of a second allowed her hand
+to touch that of Mr. Stuart. "One must grow up some time, you know," she
+murmured.
+
+"I should like to stay eighteen forever," exclaimed Ruth, with
+enthusiasm.
+
+"Would you indeed?" remarked Maud Warren, raising her eyebrows. "How
+odd!"
+
+There was a brief silence. The four girls stared straight ahead and
+tried to control their desire to laugh. During their stay at Lenox the
+year before the circumstances of which having been fully told in the
+"Automobile Girls in the Berkshires," they had not been impressed with
+Maud Warren, on account of her disagreeable and overbearing manner. But
+the blase air that she now affected, was in their candid eyes extremely
+ridiculous, and her remark to Ruth had filled them all with unseemly
+mirth.
+
+Maud Warren, however, serenely unconscious of what was passing through
+their minds, sank into a wicker chair, and deliberately turning her back
+upon the "Automobile Girls," began a conversation with Miss Sallie.
+
+The "Automobile Girls" dated their organization back to almost two years
+before, when Barbara Thurston had bravely stopped a runaway team of
+horses driven by Ruth Stuart, a rich western girl, summering in
+Kingsbridge, the home town of the Thurstons.
+
+A warm friendship had sprung up between Ruth Stuart, Barbara and Mollie
+Thurston, that resulted in a journey to Newport in Ruth's red motor car,
+familiarly known as Mr. A. Bubble. Grace Carter, a Kingsbridge girl, had
+been asked to complete the quartette of adventurous damsels, while Miss
+Sallie Stuart, Ruth's aunt had gone along as chaperon.
+
+After a series of remarkable events their trip ended with the capture of
+a society "cracksman," known to the police as the "Boy Raffles." The
+"Automobile Girls" then returned to Kingsbridge, where several weeks
+later, Mr. A. Bubble once more bore them away to the heart of the
+Berkshires. There they spent a delightful month, in a little log cabin,
+roughing it. In "The Automobile Girls in the Berkshires," the story of
+the little Indian "ghost" that haunted "Lost Man's Trail," and who
+afterwards turned out to be an Indian princess is charmingly related.
+
+After a winter of hard study, the "Automobile Girls" were again
+reunited, and in "The Automobile Girls Along the Hudson," their journey
+through the beautiful Sleepy Hollow Country is narrated. The eventful
+weeks spent in the ancestral home of Major Ten Eyck, an old friend of
+Miss Sallie Stuart's, ending with their brave fight to save the
+beautiful old house from destruction by forest fires, made the
+"Automobile Girls" stand out as true heroines.
+
+The best work since their initial adventure, however, had been done in
+Chicago, and the record of it, set down in "The Automobile Girls at
+Chicago," was not yet three months old. While on a holiday visit to
+Ruth, at her Chicago home, they had been the guests of the Presbys,
+relatives of the Stuarts, at their country place "Treasureholme." Owing
+to imprudent speculation in wheat, both Mr. Stuart and Mr. Presby had
+become heavily involved and were facing financial ruin. Through the
+efforts of Barbara Thurston, aided by the other "Automobile Girls" the
+rich treasure, buried by one of the ancestors, was discovered in time to
+save the Presby estate.
+
+Before leaving Chicago, Mr. Stuart had promised his daughter and her
+friends a sojourn at Palm Beach during the month of March. Now the
+"Automobile Girls" had actually arrived in the "Land of Flowers" eager
+for any pleasure that sunny Florida might yield them.
+
+The four young girls were unusually quiet as they sat idly looking out
+over the water. Maud Warren's arrival had cast a chill over them.
+
+It had been an enchanted land, Barbara reflected rather resentfully, now
+the enchantment was broken.
+
+Ruth sat covertly taking stock of Miss Warren's elaborate white lace
+gown and wondering why young girls ever insisted on aping so called
+"society" fashions. While Mollie and Grace speculated as to how long a
+call the Warrens were going to make.
+
+Maud, totally oblivious that she had been weighed in the balance by four
+stern young judges, and found wanting, languidly conversed with Miss
+Stuart, in her most grown-up manner.
+
+"Have you met the De Lancey Smythes, Miss Stuart?" she drawled. "They
+are too utterly charming. Mrs. De Lancey Smythe belongs to an old, old
+Southern family. She is a widow, with one daughter, Marian, a most
+delightful young woman. It was only through them that I was persuaded to
+come here."
+
+"Indeed," replied Miss Sallie. "We arrived yesterday. Therefore we have
+met no one, as yet."
+
+"Of course not," agreed Maud. "You really must meet them!"
+
+"I should be pleased to meet any friends of yours, Miss Warren," replied
+Miss Stuart courteously.
+
+"By the way, Stuart," said Mr. Warren, "what do you say to a sail in my
+launch, this afternoon? I should like to entertain some one besides the
+De Lancey Smythes. They are too fine for me. I am just a plain blunt
+man, and can't stand too many extra frills. Maud, see to it that you
+don't invite them. I absolutely refuse to be bothered with them,
+to-day."
+
+Maud flushed hotly at her father's contemptuous allusion to the De
+Lancey Smythes. But restraining her feelings she turned to Miss Stuart
+with a forced attempt at graciousness.
+
+"Won't you come for a sail? It will be awfully good of you."
+
+"We should be delighted, I am sure," replied Mr. Stuart, looking gravely
+at Maud. He then turned a compassionate gaze toward his friend, Mr.
+Warren. "That is, I mean we shall go with you, provided my sister has
+made no other plans."
+
+"Are you sure your launch won't pitch, Mr. Warren?" inquired Miss
+Stuart.
+
+"I am perfectly certain, Miss Stuart," replied the millionaire. "The
+lake is like a mill pond to-day. There is not a ripple on it."
+
+While they had been making their plans for the afternoon, a man had been
+leaning idly against the railing of the piazza. He now strolled quietly
+away, without having appeared to notice any one of them, or to have
+overheard any of their conversation.
+
+But Barbara had observed him. She had an unquenchable curiosity
+concerning faces. And this man appeared indefinably interesting.
+
+Was it the foreign cut of his dark suit, conspicuous among the crowds of
+white ones worn by most of the men at Palm Beach? Or was it his strong,
+clean-shaven face with its rather heavy bull-dog jaw, its square chin,
+and keen gray eyes, a little too narrow for Bab's taste? Bab did not
+know, then. But she took in the man's whole expression, and the adverse
+opinion she silently formed, at that time, she never had occasion to
+change.
+
+As the party was about to separate for luncheon two women appeared in a
+nearby doorway and stood looking up and down the piazza.
+
+"Oh, there are dear Marian and her mother!" cried Maud, hurrying over to
+greet her friends.
+
+"Dear Mrs. De Lancey Smythe," exclaimed Maud, with a defiant look toward
+her father, "I do so want you to go out with us in our launch this
+afternoon. Won't you let me introduce some new friends to you, who are
+going to sail with us?"
+
+Mr. Warren turned red. A look of disappointment, verging on anger crept
+into his good-natured brown eyes as his daughter deliberately defied
+him.
+
+The De Lancey Smythes glanced toward the Stuart party, with bored
+indifference.
+
+Mrs. De Lancey Smythe made some low-voiced remark to Maud who nodded her
+head slightly. Whereupon mother and daughter moved toward Miss Stuart
+with an air of haughty condescension.
+
+Mrs. De Lancey Smythe might have been anywhere from thirty-five to
+forty-five. She was tall, well-proportioned and a decided brunette. At a
+glance one would have decided her to be very handsome, but close
+observers would have noted a hard expression about the eyes and mouth
+that completely destroyed the effect of beauty. As for her daughter,
+Marian, she was a small, slender insignificant young woman who seemed
+entirely overshadowed by her mother's personality.
+
+Both mother and daughter were dressed perhaps a shade too elaborately
+for good taste, and there was something about them that immediately
+aroused a sense of vague disapproval in the minds of the Stuart party.
+
+"Maud is always so thoughtful of her friends," murmured Mrs. De Lancey
+Smythe, turning to Miss Sallie with well simulated appreciation. "She
+knows how fond we are of sailing."
+
+Miss Sallie looked sharply at the speaker. The De Lancey Smythes were
+evidently unaware of Mr. Warren's animosity toward them. She was about
+to frame some polite excuse for not going on the launch, hoping to thus
+nip in the bud the proposed sail, when suddenly meeting Mr. Warren's
+eyes, she saw an expression of entreaty in them that made her hesitate.
+
+"I hope you and your 'Automobile Girls' will not disappoint me," he said
+pleadingly.
+
+"Thank you," responded Miss Stuart. "We shall be pleased to go."
+
+With a formal bow to Mrs. De Lancey Smythe and her daughter, Miss Sallie
+marshaled her little force and left the piazza.
+
+"Very charming people," remarked Mrs. De Lancey Smythe, to Maud Warren,
+after they had disappeared. But there was an unpleasant light in her
+eyes, and a certain tightening of her lips that showed resentment at the
+manner of her reception by the Stuart party.
+
+"We shall be obliged to play our cards very carefully," she warned
+Marian, when in the privacy of their own apartment. "That Miss Stuart
+seems already inclined to be hostile. As for those girls----"
+
+"I think they're the nicest looking girls I've seen for a long time.
+Ever so much nicer than Maud Warren," exclaimed Marian.
+
+"Hold your tongue," commanded her mother angrily. "Don't let me hear any
+more remarks of that kind, or you'll have cause to regret them."
+
+Marian relapsed into sulky silence. She knew her mother only too well.
+Nevertheless she made up her mind to try honestly to make a good
+impression upon the first girls with whom she had ever wished to be
+friends.
+
+Mr. Stuart and Mr. Warren did not at once follow their respective
+charges in to luncheon, but sat down on a wide settee in one corner of
+the piazza for a long talk. One topic of conversation followed another,
+until at last Mr. Warren lowered his voice and said:
+
+"Stuart, I am going to ask a favor of you because I need your help more
+than I can say. You see," he went on, his face flushing painfully with
+embarrassment, "I have tried to give my daughter the proper sort of
+care. I have certainly spared no money in the effort. But what can
+money, alone, do for a motherless girl?" His voice choked a little.
+"Perhaps I should have married again, if only on Maud's account. But I
+tell you, Bob, I couldn't. My wife's memory is still too dear to me. No
+other woman has ever interested me." He paused a moment, then looked
+away, while Mr. Stuart patted his shoulder sympathetically.
+
+"And now," went on poor Mr. Warren, shaking his head sadly, "my girl has
+fallen in with a lot of society people who are doing her more harm than
+good--for instance, these people you have just seen are among the
+number. You wonder, perhaps, why I don't like the De Lancey Smythes. No
+one can deny that they make a good appearance but there's something
+about the mother that I distrust. She's not genuine, and although she
+tries to conceal it she's not well-bred. Maud won't believe it, and
+can't be made to see it. But I can. Now I believe, if she goes about
+with your four nice, wholesome girls and a fine woman like Miss Stuart,
+she'll open her eyes a trifle. And I want to ask you, old man, to stand
+by me and help me out. Ask your girls to help me save my girl from her
+own foolishness and the influence of just such people as these De Lancey
+Smythes. Will you help me Stuart, for 'auld lang syne'?"
+
+"Why of course I will, Tom," replied good-natured Mr. Stuart warmly,
+grasping Mr. Warren's hand. "I'll tell my sister, Sallie, too. She'll
+know just what to do with Maud."
+
+"But you understand, Bob, we shall be obliged to go at this business
+tactfully," protested poor Mr. Warren. "I am afraid my daughter is a
+difficult proposition at times, poor child. But she'll come through all
+right. She is only nineteen. There's a lot of time yet."
+
+"Oh, Sallie will manage. Trust Maud to her, my friend. And now, let's go
+in to luncheon," returned Mr. Stuart.
+
+At luncheon, Mr. Stuart repeated his conversation with Mr. Warren to
+Miss Sallie and the "Automobile Girls."
+
+"I am afraid Maud will be exceedingly difficult to manage," Miss Sallie
+demurred. "She is a law unto herself. As for those De Lancey Smythes, I
+shall endeavor to find out something about their social position." Miss
+Sallie looked about her with the air of a duchess. "But, since you have
+given your promise to your friend, we will do what we can for Maud."
+
+The girls also promised their aid. And so, for the time being, the
+matter was settled.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II
+
+A WEST INDIAN SQUALL
+
+
+By half past two that afternoon Mr. Warren's launch with its party of
+pleasure seekers was well under way.
+
+The "Automobile Girls" had gathered in one end, and were
+enthusiastically commenting on the beauty of the scenery. Miss Sallie
+had been conscientiously trying to cultivate Maud Warren, and rather
+than antagonize her in the beginning had exerted herself to be agreeable
+to the De Lancey Smythes. Mrs. De Lancey Smythe, however, had other
+views afoot than the cultivation of Miss Sallie, and had immediately
+engaged in conversation with Mr. Stuart. Hardly had the launch put out
+from shore, before she beckoned him to one side of the little deck, and
+complacently kept him there until Ruth, far from pleased with this turn
+of affairs, called to her father to join them. But Mrs. De Lancey Smythe
+proved equal to the occasion, for rising gracefully, she calmly strolled
+by Mr. Stuart's side to the end of the launch where the four girls were
+seated. Here they were joined by Miss Sallie, who had been watching the
+manoeuvres of the other woman with well-veiled contempt, and the
+conversation became general.
+
+"Do you know many people here, Mrs. Smythe?" asked Miss Sallie, turning
+to the other woman.
+
+"Only a few," replied Mrs. De Lancey Smythe indifferently. "Most of the
+people I know have been abroad all winter. Many of my dearest friends
+are among the peerage. Two people I know well, arrived to-day, however.
+The young Count de Sonde and his friend, Monsieur Duval."
+
+She pronounced the two names with a faultless accent that was not lost
+upon the practised ears of Ruth, who had spoken French fluently since
+she was a child and had had a French nursery governess for years.
+Whatever were her shortcomings, Mrs. De Lancey Smythe could at least
+speak French.
+
+"A real count!" exclaimed Mollie. "How interesting!"
+
+"Oh, we know lots of titled people," Marian interposed. "There were two
+countesses and a marquis at our hotel in Newport last summer."
+
+"Isn't all this lovely?" cried Barbara. She was not interested in counts
+and titles. She was keenly alive to the beauty of the scenery about
+them. "I can't decide which out-blues the other, the lake or the sky."
+
+"But aren't there a great many clouds in the sky?" questioned Ruth. "See
+how they have piled up over there? Do you suppose, by any chance, that
+we shall have rain? We were told that it never rained down here. It
+simply isn't tolerated."
+
+The launch was now running far out from the shore, which was lined with
+pretty villas, set here and there in the midst of cocoanut palms and
+oleander trees. Following the boat's path of rippling waves came another
+launch much smaller than Mr. Warren's. It was manned by two men who had
+apparently not observed them. The men were deep in earnest conversation.
+
+"Oh, Marian, there is the Count de Sonde with his friend!" exclaimed her
+mother. "How fortunate that we should run across them, just now."
+
+"Which one is the count?" asked Maud Warren. She had taken very little
+interest in anything before. "I hope he is not the older man."
+
+"No; he is the slender, dark-haired one," returned Mrs. Smythe. "He is
+dressed in white."
+
+In the meantime Mr. Stuart had changed his seat. He had come to Palm
+Beach to enjoy his four "Automobile Girls." No fascinating widow should
+swerve him from his original plans. Like most hard-working successful
+men he loved a holiday like a schoolboy and resented deeply any
+interference with his pleasure.
+
+"Are my girls having a good time?" he queried, smiling into four
+charming faces.
+
+"Yes, indeed!" exclaimed four voices in chorus.
+
+"We thought the scenery beautiful in the Berkshires and along the Hudson
+river, Mr. Stuart. But this is the most beautiful of all!" cried Mollie,
+clasping her small hands ecstatically.
+
+"Do you suppose people ever really work here?" inquired Grace. "It is
+like fairy land. Everything happens by magic."
+
+"You are right, Grace. This is a land of pleasure," returned Mr. Stuart.
+"The only people who work are the employes in the hotels and the
+servants in the cottages."
+
+"Palm Beach is dedicated to pleasure," explained Ruth, "because it was
+by accident that it came to be here at all. So it can just as well be
+spared for an earthly paradise."
+
+"Why is Palm Beach an accident?" queried Mollie.
+
+"Years ago this was just a wild, desolate coast," Ruth went on. "Even
+now the wilderness is only a mile away. There was a wreck out there,
+somewhere, on the other side of the peninsula," she pointed toward the
+ocean. "A ship was loaded with cocoanuts, which were washed ashore. By
+and by the cocoanuts sprouted and grew into tall palm trees. So this
+barren shore was transformed into one of the most beautiful palm groves
+in the world."
+
+Mr. Stuart pinched his daughter's cheek. "You've been stealing a march
+on us, Mistress Ruth," he said. "You have been reading a guide book."
+
+Just then a shadow clouded the brilliant sunshine. The engineer of the
+launch glanced up uneasily.
+
+"You don't think it is going to rain, do you?" asked Mr. Warren.
+
+"It would be a very unusual thing if it did, sir," replied the man,
+without committing himself.
+
+A fresh wind had come up, bearing with it the fragrance of many flowers.
+It seemed to have blown over miles of lily beds and orange groves.
+Barbara closed her eyes as she breathed in the warm, scented air. "How
+easy to forget all responsibilities, in an enchanted place like this!"
+she thought. "How easy just to drift along."
+
+"Papa, do tell the man to turn back," said Maud in a voice that broke
+unpleasantly into Bab's reflections. "It's getting a little chilly. And
+besides, we must have tea this afternoon in the cocoanut grove."
+
+"Very well, my dear," replied her father, turning to give his order to
+the engineer.
+
+The launch swung around. Immediately the whole party spied another boat
+bobbing helplessly on the water. One of the men in it was leaning over
+examining the machinery of the frail craft. The other one, in white,
+stood at the side of the boat, scanning the water.
+
+No other launches were in sight. The many pleasure boats which had
+dotted the lake with flecks of white, only a few minutes before, had now
+put in to shore. A black cloud had spread itself over the whole sky,
+casting a dark and ominous shadow over the lake.
+
+As all the world knows--at least the part of the world which lives on
+pleasure waters--a strict etiquette prevails among these small boats.
+One boat always helps another in distress.
+
+The engineer of Mr. Warren's launch did not wait for orders. He turned
+at once toward the drifting craft.
+
+"Is your engine broken?" he asked, as the boats touched sides.
+
+The young man in white was the Count de Sonde himself. He looked
+decidedly relieved at the appearance of the rescuers. He removed his
+Panama hat with a flourish and bowed low to the women. The other man
+answered the boatman.
+
+"We are quite helpless, you see," the count ejaculated, shrugging his
+shoulders and raising his eyebrows at the same time. "My friend can do
+nothing."
+
+In the meantime the friend had arisen from the engine. He was examining
+the boatload of people with guarded interest.
+
+"How do you do, Count? How are you, Monsieur Duval?" called Mrs. De
+Lancey Smythe.
+
+It was not a time for conventional introductions. The boatman made a
+line fast from the small craft to the larger one. He meant to tow the
+smaller launch toward home.
+
+But Mrs. De Lancey Smythe persisted. Mr. Warren and his friends must
+meet the Count de Sonde and Monsieur Duval.
+
+Suddenly the heavens were shaken by a terrific clap of thunder.
+
+Mrs. Smythe gave a little scream. "I am always frightened during a
+storm," she averred. "Mr. Stuart, would it be too much to ask you to
+assist me into the cabin?"
+
+Miss Sallie glanced rather contemptuously at the other woman, and
+wondered if her fright were real. Mr. Stuart rose and courteously
+assisted Mrs. De Lancey Smythe into the tiny cabin, just as a driving
+sheet of rain bore down upon them.
+
+The "Automobile Girls" crouched in the centre of the boat. Maud and
+Marian followed Mrs. Smythe.
+
+"Make for the nearest boathouse!" called Mr. Warren to his engineer. "We
+can't get back to the hotel in such a storm as this."
+
+The storm now burst in all its West Indian fury. The waters were churned
+into foam. The wind whistled and roared. The two small boats tossed
+about on the water like chips.
+
+"We are just in time!" exclaimed Mr. Warren, as they at last reached the
+boathouse. "In another five minutes I believe we should have been
+swamped." He helped the women from the boat to the pier.
+
+"What an escape!" gasped Mrs. Smythe. "Marian, my darling, are you all
+right?"
+
+"Perfectly, Mama," replied her daughter rather scornfully. It was plain
+to the four "Automobile Girls" that Marian did not entirely approve of
+her mother's display of fear, and the tone in which she had answered
+told its own story.
+
+The little company sought the shelter of the boathouse. The two
+foreigners went with them. In one of the men, Bab recognized the
+stranger she had noticed that morning on the hotel piazza. Mrs. De
+Lancey Smythe introduced him as Monsieur Duval.
+
+"We were very lucky to have met you, sir," Mr. Duval said to Mr. Stuart.
+Bab noticed that he spoke very good English, with only a slight foreign
+accent. "I am afraid our boat would have sunk if you had not come to our
+rescue."
+
+Mr. Stuart bowed politely, but coldly. He was wondering if his girls and
+Miss Sallie would have bad colds from their wetting. They were standing
+apart from the others, laughing at their plight.
+
+The young Count de Sonde had joined Marian and her mother, as soon as he
+entered the boathouse, but Maud was with them. It was upon Maud that the
+count immediately bestowed his attention. He smiled upon her, until
+Maud's foolish head began to flutter. Just think of capturing the
+attentions of a real count so quickly! Mr. Warren saw his daughter's
+delight and frowned slightly. Maud must not get any foolish ideas about
+foreigners in her head. He would put an end to that nonsense. He was
+about to stride over and take charge of affairs when a man servant in
+plain livery appeared on the path near the boathouse door. He had come
+from the pretty villa, which was only a hundred yards back from the
+boathouse, set in a thick grove of palms. The man carried a large bundle
+of wraps and umbrellas. He paused respectfully when he reached the steps
+leading to the pavilion.
+
+"My lady would be glad if you would seek shelter from the storm in her
+house," he said in broken English to Mr. Warren.
+
+It was great fun to scamper through the pouring rain to the pretty
+villa. The foreign coats and capes kept everyone dry. Now that they were
+on land Mr. Warren's boat party had begun to regard their adventure
+somewhat lightly.
+
+Once on the porch of the villa they were ushered into a large,
+low-ceilinged room at one end of which a fire of pine knots was burning
+brightly. The room was empty. The newcomers clustered about the blaze to
+dry their soaked shoes.
+
+The room held very little furniture. Yet it appeared to Bab as one of
+the most beautiful rooms she had ever seen. A grand piano stood at one
+end, and a few graceful wicker chairs were scattered about the
+apartment. The room had an indescribable look of elegance. Was it the
+bare highly polished floor, with only the Persian rug to break its
+shining surface? Or was it the enormous bunch of daffodils in a cut
+glass bowl on the table that lent the place its charm? Bab did not know.
+On the mantelpiece between two tall brass candle-sticks stood a
+beautiful marble bust. Barbara afterwards learned that it was known as
+"The Head of an Unknown Lady."
+
+A handsome leather writing-case lay open on the table. It displayed on
+the inner side a large crest picked out in dull gold. The firelight
+shone on the gold outlines and threw them into dull relief.
+
+Bab saw the Frenchman, Monsieur Duval, walk over to this table. He
+examined the crest intently for a moment, then turned away.
+
+At this instant two women came in through the open door. The one, who
+was quite old, supported herself with a gold-headed mahogany cane. The
+other was young and very beautiful.
+
+The older woman was rather terrifying in aspect. She had a hooked nose
+and her bright, beady little eyes regarded the company with a look of
+amused tolerance.
+
+The younger woman came forward to meet her unknown guests without the
+slightest embarrassment or affectation. The "Automobile Girls" held
+their breath. Surely she was the most exquisite creature they had ever
+beheld.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III
+
+THE FAIR UNKNOWN
+
+
+"I am afraid you must be very cold and wet," the young woman said, in a
+clear sweet voice, with an accent that the girls had never heard before.
+She was graceful with an elegance of manner that to imaginative Bab
+seemed almost regal.
+
+Mr. Stuart went forward. "It is most kind and hospitable of you to take
+us in like this," he declared. "We would certainly have been very
+uncomfortable if we had stayed in the boathouse for such a length of
+time. We are deeply grateful to you."
+
+"Do sit down," the young woman answered. "And won't you have some tea?
+It may warm you." She pressed an electric bell in the wall. A man
+servant appeared, and she gave him her orders in German.
+
+The "Automobile Girls" clustered together in the window seat. Their
+unknown hostess sank into a low chair near them. Miss Sallie and Mrs. De
+Lancey Smythe were left to the mercy of the old lady with the beaked
+nose. Maud and the count withdrew to one corner of the room, where they
+chatted softly, the latter bent on displaying all his powers of
+fascination.
+
+"Are these your four daughters?" asked the young mistress of the villa,
+turning to Mr. Stuart, after a friendly glance at the "Automobile
+Girls."
+
+"No," Mr. Stuart replied, laughing and shaking his head. "I am sorry to
+say I can boast of only one daughter. The three other girls are her
+friends. But they are all my girls. At least I call them my 'Automobile
+Girls'!"
+
+"Ah," replied the young woman apparently puzzled. "How is it that you
+call them the 'Automobile Girls'? Do young girls run motor cars in your
+country? Their independence is quite wonderful, I think."
+
+"Ruth is our chauffeur," explained Bab, who was looking closely at the
+beautiful face of her hostess. The latter's dark brown hair was arranged
+in a braid and wound about her head like a coronet but it broke into
+little soft curls around her face. She had a small straight nose and the
+curve of her red lips was perfect. The coutour of her face was oval and
+her large dark eyes were touched with an undefinable sadness. She was
+tall and slender, and she wore a plain, white woolen frock that
+emphasized the lines of her graceful figure. The simplicity of her
+costume was not marred by a single ornament. Even her long, slender
+fingers were bare of rings.
+
+She turned to pretty Mollie, taking one of her small hands in her own
+cool fingers. "Do these little hands also run a motor car?" the hostess
+asked.
+
+Mollie looked long into the beautiful face. Somehow its hidden sadness
+touched her. Mollie's blue eyes filled with tears. She felt strangely
+timid.
+
+"Why, you must not be afraid of me, dear one," said the young woman. She
+gazed into Mollie's blue eyes appealingly, and softly pressed her hand.
+"I'm a girl like yourself, only I am much older. But I love younger
+girls very dearly. You must let me be your friend." To the amazement of
+the other girls this exquisite stranger bent over and kissed Mollie on
+the lips.
+
+"I should be very happy to have you for my friend," returned Mollie, a
+smile quivering through her tears. "And I wasn't the least bit
+frightened. I think perhaps it was the storm that made me so silly. Bab
+sometimes calls me a cry baby."
+
+"Which one of you is Bab? And what a pretty name that is!" exclaimed the
+young hostess.
+
+Barbara stepped forward with a friendly smile. Mr. Stuart then presented
+Grace and Ruth.
+
+But still their new friend did not reveal her identity.
+
+She was a foreigner. There was no doubt of that. She had spoken in
+German to her servant. Perhaps she was German? She confessed that this
+was her first visit to America. The climate of New York had driven her
+south. Yet she did not mention her name or her country.
+
+Presently the man servant returned to the room carrying a tea service.
+He was followed by a comely German maid, who carried a tray laden with
+buttered toast and a large dish of German cookies.
+
+The man lit the candles and a lamp covered with a yellow shade.
+
+A soft, mellow glow pervaded the beautiful room. There was a pleasant
+silence and all eyes were turned to their lovely young hostess, whose
+slender white hands busied themselves with the tea things.
+
+"A friendly cup of tea on a day like this, makes the whole world kin,"
+she said, smiling brightly at her guests. "It banishes sad thoughts and
+one grows cheerful, even though the weather behaves itself so badly."
+
+"We have a proverb," laughed Ruth, "that says 'it's an ill wind that
+blows no one good.' We should really thank the weather for misbehaving."
+
+"Ah, that is broad flattery," cried their hostess with a silvery laugh.
+"But oh so charming."
+
+"Do you not find it dull staying at an out-of-the-way place like this?"
+broke in Mrs. De Lancey Smythe, looking about her with a patronizing
+air. "I am quite sure I have never seen you at the Beach."
+
+The "Automobile Girls" exchanged lightning glances. Mrs. Smythe's abrupt
+remark jarred upon them, and simultaneously it occurred to them that she
+was distinctly underbred.
+
+Marian's face flushed, and she bit her lip. "I think this quiet place
+must be enchanting," she said almost defiantly. "I hate hotels."
+
+"Really, Marian," said her mother coldly. "Your opinion has not been
+solicited."
+
+"They're going to quarrel," thought Barbara. "How disagreeable that
+woman is. She is so snippy, and calculating and deceitful. I rather like
+Marian, though."
+
+But their hostess averted any domestic altercation by saying sweetly. "I
+am indeed a stranger, here, but I came for rest and quiet, therefore I
+have little desire to frequent the Beach or its hotels."
+
+"Quite true," responded Mrs. De Lancey Smythe, and hastily turning her
+attention to the imposing looking old woman with the gold headed cane
+she said, "You are German, I presume."
+
+"Why German?" replied the old lady, observing her questioner with a
+dangerous glitter in her small black eyes.
+
+Mrs. De Lancey Smythe showed signs of confusion.
+
+"I thought you were Germans because you spoke German to your servant,"
+she said, trying to look haughty and thus carry off what promised to be
+an unpleasant situation.
+
+"Ah, yes," returned her antagonist. "But does it follow that one is of
+the same country as one's servants? We have also employed both French
+and English maids."
+
+Mrs. De Lancey Smythe did not deem it wise to continue the conversation.
+She therefore turned her attention to Mr. Duval who had been listening
+to the conversation with a curious smile on his clever face.
+
+Miss Sallie was delighted with the strange old woman. Her abruptness was
+amusing. Miss Stuart began discussing a number of current topics with
+her in an impersonal, well-bred manner, neither woman showing the
+slightest curiosity about the other's personal affairs.
+
+"Count de Sonde!" called Mrs. De Lancey Smythe suddenly.
+
+There was an immediate lull in the conversation.
+
+The young mistress of the villa stared at the "Automobile Girls." Her
+face turned pale. She leaned back in her chair. "Count de Sonde!" she
+whispered to herself.
+
+Mollie was at her new friend's side in an instant. "I am afraid you are
+ill," she suggested. "Can I do anything for you?"
+
+"No, no, dear child," replied the other. "It was only a momentary
+faintness. But did I not hear some one call the Count de Sonde? Is he
+here?"
+
+"Oh, yes," returned Mollie politely. "He is that young man in white, who
+is now talking with Mrs. De Lancey Smythe."
+
+Her hostess turned quickly. She looked a long time at the young count.
+"Who is the other man near him?" she next asked.
+
+Mollie was again her informant. "He is a Mr. Duval," she explained. "He
+and the Count de Sonde are at the same hotel together."
+
+At this moment, Maud Warren, who had noted her father's displeased look,
+decided to join the "Automobile Girls," who were grouped around their
+hostess.
+
+"Do you know," she said with an air of triumph, "the Count de Sonde has
+invited Papa and me and the De Lancey Smythes to visit him at his
+chateau in France next summer?"
+
+The tea-cup of their hostess crashed to the floor. It broke into small
+pieces.
+
+"Don't trouble to pick up the pieces," she protested to Mr. Stuart.
+"Johann will do it. I am very careless. So you expect to visit France
+next summer?" she continued, turning her attention to Maud.
+
+"Yes, Papa and I shall go," Maud replied. "It would be quite novel to
+visit a chateau."
+
+"Delightful. But where is the chateau of the De Sonde family?" inquired
+the other young woman.
+
+Maud hesitated. "I am not sure that I know," she replied. "I believe the
+count said it was in Brittany. The count's family is one of the oldest
+in France."
+
+"I have not yet had the pleasure of meeting the count," suggested Maud's
+hostess. "Perhaps you will present him to me."
+
+In a few moments the young count was leaning gracefully against the
+mantelpiece. He was talking with the beautiful stranger, whose name was
+still withheld from her visitors. A little later Monsieur Duval joined
+them.
+
+"Oh, yes, I hasten to assure you, it is quite, quite old," the count
+explained. He was talking of his family in Brittany.
+
+"How far back does your family go?" went on his unknown questioner.
+
+The count cleared his throat and choked over his fresh cup of tea.
+
+"My friend's family goes back to the eleventh century," answered Duval
+quietly. The count was still coughing violently.
+
+"And you are the last of your line?" continued his hostess. She was
+addressing the count. "It is a pity for such an illustrious race to die
+out. I suppose you will marry?"
+
+She looked at the young man with such grave sweetness that he smiled
+uneasily and shifted his gaze.
+
+"I hope to marry some day, Mademoiselle," he mumbled.
+
+"You have some very old families in Germany also, have you not?"
+inquired Monsieur Duval, looking searchingly at the young woman.
+
+Did she pause a moment before she answered? Bab and Ruth both thought
+so.
+
+"In what European country are there not old families, Monsieur?" she
+replied courteously. "In Italy the old families trace their lineage to
+the gods of mythology. But I am interested in a young country like this
+America."
+
+"Then you should go to Chicago, if you wish to see a really American
+city," cried Ruth. "Of course, Aunt Sallie and Father and I think our
+Chicago is greater than New York, because it is our home."
+
+"De Lancey Hall, in Virginia, is my family home," drawled Mrs. De Lancey
+Smythe, with a little insolent air of pride. "The De Lanceys were a
+titled French family before they came to this country."
+
+"How very interesting!" exclaimed the youthful hostess, in an enigmatic
+tone. "Do people drop their titles in this great free country of yours?
+It is much better, I think. Titles mean but little anywhere." She ended
+her words with a little, serious frown.
+
+"The best heritage that I can lay claim to is that of being an
+American," exclaimed Ruth, with enthusiasm. "America for the Americans!
+Three cheers for the red, white and blue!"
+
+"You are a true patriot. Is it not so?" laughed the hostess, patting
+Ruth's shoulder. "Your great free country is so wonderful. Its liberty
+is boundless." She sighed, and for a moment seemed wrapped in thought.
+Then turning to Mr. Stuart and Mr. Warren asked if they would have more
+tea.
+
+"No thank you," replied Mr. Stuart. "In fact I believe we had better
+begin to think about getting back to our hotel. The rain has stopped,
+and we need trespass upon your hospitality no further."
+
+"It has been a pleasure to meet you and your 'Automobile Girls,'" the
+young woman replied. Then she added very softly so that Mr. Stuart and
+Mollie who stood with her hand clasped in that of the stranger, alone,
+heard: "Won't you bring them to see me in the near future?"
+
+"Oh how lovely!" breathed Mollie.
+
+"We shall be very happy, indeed to come," Mr. Stuart replied.
+
+"I thank you for your charming hospitality, Mademoiselle," broke in the
+suave tones of Mr. Duval, who with the count at his heels had stepped
+unnoticed to the young woman's side. "Am I presumptuous in venturing to
+ask if it is your pleasure that we should know to whom we are indebted?"
+
+"Ah to be sure. I have been what you call, very stupid," laughed the
+unknown. "Pray pardon me." Gliding over to the side of the stern old
+woman, she took her hand. "Permit me to present my very dear friend,
+Madame de Villiers. I am the Countess Sophia von Stolberg."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV
+
+THE COMPACT
+
+
+"Girls!" exclaimed Ruth, who lay curled up on the foot of her bed in a
+pale blue silk kimono. "I feel like offering a libation to the Storm
+King to-night for sending us that squall."
+
+"Why?" inquired Grace, who was not gifted with an Oriental imagination.
+
+"Because, if there had been no storm, there would have been no Countess
+Sophia," replied her friend.
+
+"She is hard to understand, but she is so beautiful, so gentle and so
+noble," observed Barbara.
+
+"And she kissed me!" cried Mollie.
+
+"As, yes, Mollie darling, she had a fearful crush on you," laughed Ruth.
+"We are already green with jealousy. It's those golden baby curls of
+yours that do the business, I suppose. First, it was the lovely Mrs.
+Cartwright you won from us at Newport. Now your cerulean eyes have
+hypnotized the Countess Sophia. What shall we do to her, girls?"
+
+"Destroy her beauty!" cried Barbara. "Cut off her curls and give her two
+black eyes."
+
+The three girls pounced on Mollie. There was a real tom-boy romp which
+ended in a burst of joyous laughter. For Miss Sallie's familiar rap-tap
+was heard on the door. Her voice was raised in mild protest:
+
+"Children, remember that this is a hotel."
+
+The girls subsided.
+
+"Do you suppose it would be good form to call on the countess to-morrow,
+when we met her only this afternoon?" asked Ruth, as soon as she had
+regained her breath.
+
+"It would be rather rushing things," answered Barbara.
+
+"If you will be good, and promise not to lay violent hands on me again,
+I will tell you something," Mollie volunteered.
+
+"We promise," cried three voices in unison.
+
+"The countess is going to ask us to luncheon to-morrow. She whispered it
+to me just before we left her villa this afternoon."
+
+"Oh, joy!" exclaimed Ruth. "Do you mean that she intends to invite the
+entire party--the De Lancey Smythes and all that aggregation?"
+
+"No," Mollie declared, answering Ruth's previous question. "The countess
+intends to invite only Miss Sallie, Mr. Stuart and the 'Automobile
+Girls.'"
+
+"But what are we to do about Maud Warren?" queried Ruth. "Father has
+promised Mr. Warren we would help him out with Maud. Here we are already
+trying to shake her off. If we are going to see a great deal of the
+countess, how shall we manage? I am sure the stern old dowager would
+never endure Maud's grown up manner for a moment. And Maud won't give up
+those De Lancey Smythes."
+
+"I think it would be a good idea to take the Countess Sophia into our
+confidence, if we have an opportunity," suggested Barbara. "It would not
+be a betrayal of trust. Because what we wish to accomplish is to
+persuade Maud Warren to see the difference between really well-bred
+people like the countess and those who pretend to be. I think the
+Smythes are pretenders, the mother at least. She seems to be continually
+on the alert. I watched her yesterday, and that high and mighty air that
+she assumes is a cloak to hide her real character. It seems to me that
+she and that Duval man have some sort of secret understanding. I
+think----" Barbara paused.
+
+"Well, Sherlock, what do you think?" queried Ruth impertinently. "And
+when you unearth her family skeleton may I go along and play Doctor
+Watson?"
+
+"How ridiculous you are, Ruth," returned Barbara, laughing. "I suppose I
+deserve to be teased. I'm always suspecting people's motives. But really
+I do believe that that Mrs. Smythe has a hurtful influence over Maud.
+Mr. Warren doesn't like to have Maud with her, either. You heard the way
+he spoke this morning."
+
+"Yes," exclaimed Ruth. "We also heard Miss Maud defy him. She is
+dreadfully spoiled, and we shall be obliged to handle her very
+carefully. If she even suspects we are trying to reform her, she will
+shun our beneficial society as she would the plague."
+
+"I believe I could bear that misfortune," sighed Mollie.
+
+But Barbara was serious. "I am truly sorry for Maud Warren," she
+declared. "I think she is just like a blind person. She can't see
+anything that is good and true. She thinks of nothing but money, titles
+and sham society. I don't see how we can do her any good."
+
+"Well, her father thinks we can," Grace added. "He told me on our way
+back from the launch party, that he hoped we would be friends with Maud,
+for she needed the companionship of sensible girls. He said that he
+hoped she would take more interest in outdoor sports, and drop some of
+the newfangled society ideas she has adopted."
+
+"I'll tell you a secret," said Barbara slowly. "I think that Maud was
+impressed with the Count de Sonde, or rather his title."
+
+"And the count seemed to be equally impressed with Maud," interposed
+Ruth. "I believe he is one of those foreigners with no money, and plenty
+of title that one reads about in the Sunday papers."
+
+"Some of them don't have even the title," said Mollie with a worldly air
+that contrasted oddly with her baby face. "They are just waiters who
+pretend that they are real counts."
+
+"Hear, hear," cried Ruth, "Mollie the worldly wise is holding forth!"
+
+"Well, you needn't make fun of me, Ruth," said Mollie stoutly. "It's all
+true. I read about one last week who married a rich American girl. She
+fell in love with his title. After she had married him she found out
+that his name was Jean, something or other, that he had been a waiter,
+and was wanted by the police for forgery. Just think girls how
+dreadfully she must have felt!"
+
+"I should say so," averred Grace, who always championed Mollie's cause.
+
+"What's your opinion of the Count de Sonde, Barbara?" asked Ruth.
+
+"He didn't impress me favorably," replied Bab. "He's too artificial, and
+too conceited. He reminds me of a comic opera Frenchman. He looks as
+though he were ready to run about on his toes and shrug his shoulders at
+the slightest pretext."
+
+"That exactly describes him," Ruth agreed. "I imagine him trilling a
+silly French song:
+
+  "'Bonjour, mesdames! bonjour, messieurs!
+  Je suis le Comte de Sonde!'"
+
+Ruth bowed low, first to Mollie and then to Grace. She shrugged her
+dainty shoulders in a perfect imitation of the count.
+
+"But what about Monsieur Duval?" queried Mollie.
+
+"He's the backbone of the little count," said Barbara. "He's the brains
+and strength of the company. If there is any little game to be played at
+Palm Beach--look out for Mr. Duval!"
+
+"But do you suppose they really have a game to play?" persisted Ruth.
+
+Bab shook her head. "I don't know. I suppose I am only joking," she
+answered. "But did you notice how often Mr. Duval came to the count's
+rescue? He helped him out of a number of tight places. Of course it is
+ridiculous to suppose those men have any scheme afoot. They are
+certainly not thieves, like Harry Townsend at Newport. I wonder what
+they are after?"
+
+"Oh, nothing, Bab. You are too mysterious," protested Mollie. "I thought
+we were talking about Maud Warren and how we could best make friends
+with her."
+
+"Girls, let's enter into a solemn compact," Ruth suggested, lowering her
+voice to a whisper in order to persuade the other girls to listen.
+
+"What kind of compact, child?" Bab demanded.
+
+"A compact to do our best for Maud Warren," said conscientious Ruth. "I
+tell you, girls, it won't be easy, for Maud isn't our kind. And you know
+how we like to keep together and don't care much for any outside girl. I
+know we shall have to make a good many sacrifices. But Maud must not run
+around with the Smythes and that little French count all the time. Let's
+make a compact to do our best for Maud. Come, join hands."
+
+The four girls clasped hands. They could not foresee into what
+difficulties this compact would lead them.
+
+Tap! tap! Miss Sallie knocked again at the door.
+
+"Go to bed at once; it is very late," she ordered.
+
+Ruth dreamed that night that the four girls were sitting in a circle
+with the Countess Sophia von Stolberg. They had hold of one another's
+hands. They were repeating their vow about Maud. Suddenly they were
+interrupted. Monsieur Duval appeared in their midst. The Countess Sophia
+saw the Frenchman. She gave a cry of terror and fainted.
+
+Ruth awakened with a start. The night was still. The moon shone brightly
+through the open windows and the air was filled with the perfume of
+magnolia blossoms.
+
+"I wonder what the Countess Sophia's history is?" thought Ruth sleepily,
+as she dropped into slumber once more.
+
+At her villa, looking across the moonlit lake, the beautiful young
+countess was at that moment writing a letter. It was a long letter,
+penned in close fine handwriting. When she had finished she slipped the
+letter into an envelope, which she addressed carefully to "M. Le Comte
+Frederic de Sonde."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V
+
+THE DAUGHTER OF MRS. DE LANCEY SMYTHE
+
+
+Breakfast was hardly over next morning before a note on thin foreign
+paper was handed to Miss Sallie Stuart. She read it aloud: it asked for
+the pleasure of their company at luncheon. It was signed "Sophia von
+Stolberg." The messenger would wait for the answer. Mr. Stuart was
+included in the invitation.
+
+"There's only one answer to that note," laughed Mr. Stuart, scanning the
+four eager faces of the "Automobile Girls." "Shall I translate your
+expressions into a single word? It is 'yes,' my hearties."
+
+"Did you think they would fail to accept?" teased Miss Sallie. "Look at
+the foolish young things! They have all fallen in love with the countess
+at first sight, and can hardly wait for one o'clock to arrive. But I
+will send our acceptance at once, so as not to keep the man waiting."
+Miss Stuart hurried off to the writing room of the hotel.
+
+So the girls were alone when they were joined on the piazza by Mrs. De
+Lancey Smythe and Marian.
+
+"Good morning, my dears," said Mrs. De Lancey Smythe, with an attempt at
+affability. "Isn't it delightful after the storm?"
+
+"Very," answered Ruth, rather shortly.
+
+"Have you seen dear Maud and her father this morning?" pursued Mrs.
+Smythe, ignoring Ruth's lack of cordiality.
+
+"No," replied Ruth. "Have you?"
+
+"I saw them a few minutes ago, and they were engaged in a family
+discussion," replied the older woman. "Such discussions are most
+disagreeable to me. Marian and I never have them. For some stupid
+reason, Mr. Warren is opposed to his daughter's receiving attentions
+from the Count de Sonde. I have assured him that I know the count well.
+He belongs to an old and illustrious family. But tell me, what is your
+opinion of the Countess Sophia von Stolberg? Do you think she is an
+impostor?"
+
+"An impostor!" exclaimed Ruth indignantly. "I think she is simply
+perfect. I never met any one in my life who impressed me so much."
+
+"Beware, my dear, that your feelings do not run away with you," warned
+Mrs. De Lancey Smythe with asperity. "I have heard rumors, since I saw
+you last night. There are suspicious circumstances connected with this
+countess. She may very possibly be an impostor."
+
+"Who told you such a dreadful falsehood?" demanded Ruth. She was almost
+choking with anger. But Barbara had joined her. Bab's firm fingers on
+Ruth's arm warned her to be careful.
+
+"The man who told me is in a position to know the truth. He is a clever
+man of the world, a foreigner himself," replied Mrs. Smythe
+triumphantly.
+
+"I am afraid I cannot credit his story," replied Ruth, with more
+composure. "I cannot forget that we accepted the countess's hospitality
+yesterday and we are to have the pleasure of accepting more of it
+to-day. My father and Aunt Sallie, and we four girls, are to have
+luncheon with the Countess von Stolberg and Madame de Villiers."
+
+Ruth drew Barbara's arm through hers. They moved away from Mrs. De
+Lancey Smythe.
+
+But Mrs. De Lancey Smythe had said her say and left a sting, and she
+smiled maliciously as the two girls walked away.
+
+"I can't endure that woman, Barbara," exclaimed Ruth. "I'll lose my head
+completely if she attacks our beautiful countess again."
+
+"She is too disagreeable to notice," answered Bab vehemently. "Here
+comes Maud Warren. Shall we ask her to take a walk with us along the
+Beach?"
+
+"I suppose so," assented Ruth, whose enthusiasm had somewhat cooled over
+night. "I don't want her. But we ought to be polite."
+
+The two girls greeted Maud Warren cordially. There was a discontented
+line across that young woman's brow, and an angry look in her pale blue
+eyes.
+
+"I am looking for the count," she declared defiantly.
+
+The girls instinctively knew that Maud was disobeying her father. Mr.
+Warren had just finished lecturing Maud and had commanded that she cut
+the count's acquaintance.
+
+"I saw the count a few minutes ago. He was starting off with his friend
+for a walk," explained Bab gently. "Won't you take a stroll on the beach
+with us, Maud? It is such a perfect morning."
+
+"Oh, do come, Maud," begged Ruth, with a charming, cordial smile. Ruth's
+sweet nature was again asserting itself.
+
+"Yes, do," cried Mollie and Grace, who had just joined the little group
+of girls.
+
+Maud's face softened. "You are awfully nice," she said. Maud was a
+little taken aback by so much friendliness. She had been spoiled all her
+life, and had never had real friends among young girls. People had
+thought her disagreeable and overbearing, and she had held herself
+aloof, displaying a degree of hauteur that admitted of no friendship.
+
+"Let's get our hats and go immediately. It will soon be time to go in
+bathing," suggested Bab. Barbara never missed a swim if she could help
+it.
+
+"All right, old water dog," Ruth agreed. "Meet us on the piazza looking
+toward the ocean, Maud. We will be back in ten minutes."
+
+The girls were back on the piazza at the appointed time. Maud was there.
+But with her were Marian De Lancey Smythe, and the Count de Sonde.
+
+"What a nuisance!" exclaimed Ruth under her breath. But there was
+nothing to be done; therefore the girls decided to accept this undesired
+addition to their number with the best possible grace.
+
+The entire party started down the avenue of palms toward the ocean.
+
+The "Automobile Girls" were thrilled with the beauty of the great
+stretch of blue water. Marian De Lancey Smythe, too, had a soul stirring
+within her. It had been choked by the false principles and ostentations
+that her mother had taught her. But Marian was not a stupid girl. Her
+wits had been sharpened by years of managing and deceit. She had the
+sense to see the difference between herself and the four sweet,
+unaffected "Automobile Girls," and she knew the difference was in their
+favor.
+
+Under her fashionable exterior a really simple heart beat in Marian's
+bosom, and she was filled with a wild desire to shake off her mother's
+despotic rule, and for once let her real self come to the surface. As
+she strolled moodily along beside Barbara she reflected bitterly that
+while others had been given all, she had received nothing.
+
+She contrasted the hand to mouth existence that she and her mother led
+with the full, cheerful life of the "Automobile Girls," and a wave of
+shame swept over her at the deceptions and subterfuges that were second
+nature to her mother, which she felt reasonably certain that no really
+honest person would practise. Her life was a sham and a mockery, and
+behind it was the ever present fear that her mother would some day
+overstep all bounds, and do something to bring the crushing weight of
+the law down upon them. There were so many things that Marian did not
+understand. Her mother never said more about her affairs than was
+absolutely necessary. She only knew that they were always poor, always
+struggling to appear to be that which they were not. She had been
+commanded to dissemble, to lie, to do without a murmur, whatever her
+mother asked of her, and her better self sometimes rose in a revolt
+against her mother, that was almost hatred.
+
+As she walked gloomily along wrapped in her own bitter reflections, she
+sighed deeply. Bab who was walking with her glanced quickly at Marian,
+then with one of her swift impulses, she put out her hand and clasped
+that of the other girl.
+
+"Are you unhappy, Marian?" she asked.
+
+"No," replied Marian. But her emotions got the better of her and she
+choked back her sobs with an angry gulp. Then feeling the pressure of
+Bab's sympathetic hand she said brokenly, "I mean, yes. At least, I
+don't know exactly what is the matter with me. I think I am
+homesick--homesick for the things I have never had, and never expect to
+have."
+
+"I'm sorry," said Bab, still holding Marian's hand, yet looking away, so
+she should not see Marian's rebellious tears. "But why do you think you
+won't have the things you want? If you keep on wishing for a thing the
+wish is sure to come true some day."
+
+Marian's set face softened at these words. "Do you really think that?"
+she asked. "Do you suppose that things will ever be any different for
+me? Oh, if you only knew how I hate all this miserable pretense."
+
+"Why, Marian!" exclaimed Bab. "What is the matter? I had no idea you
+were so unhappy."
+
+"Of course you hadn't," replied Marian. "Because I never dare let any
+one know my real feelings. I never have hated my life as I do since I
+have known you girls. You are just girls. That's the beauty of it, and
+you have folks who love you and want you to stay girls and not ape grown
+up people all the time. I'd like to wear my hair in one braid, and run
+and romp and have a good time generally. Look at me. I look as though I
+were twenty-two at least, and I'm only seventeen. I have to wear my hair
+on top of my head and pretend to be something remarkable when I want to
+be just a plain every day girl. It's intolerable. I won't stand it any
+longer. I don't see why I was ever born."
+
+"Poor Marian," soothed Bab. "Don't feel so badly. It will all come right
+some day. Let me be your friend. I believe I understand just how you
+feel. Perhaps your mother may----"
+
+"Don't speak of my mother!" ejaculated the girl passionately. "Sometimes
+I hate her. Do you know, Barbara, I often wonder if she is really my
+mother. Away back in my mind there is the memory of another face. I
+don't know whether I have only dreamed it, or where it came from, but I
+like to think of that sweet face as belonging to my mother."
+
+Bab looked at Marian in a rather startled way. What a strange girl she
+was, to be sure. Suppose Mrs. De Lancey Smythe were not her mother.
+Suppose that Marian had been stolen when a baby. Bab's active brain
+immediately began to spin a web of circumstances about Marian Smythe.
+
+"Marian," she began. But she never finished for just then a piercing cry
+rang out.
+
+Nursemaids with children began running along the sands. Another nurse
+had run out into the water. She was wildly waving her arms and pointing
+to a small object well out on the waves. Barbara saw it for just an
+instant. Then it disappeared. She and Marian both recognized what it
+was. A child's curly head had risen to the surface of the water, and
+then had sunk out of sight.
+
+Quick as a flash Barbara kicked off her white canvas pumps and threw hat
+and linen coat on the ground.
+
+Extending her hands before her, she ran out into the water. Marian ran
+blindly after her. The Count de Sonde was the only man near that part of
+the beach. He was behaving in a most remarkable manner. Entirely
+forgetful of the blood of scores of noble ancestors that ran in his
+veins, he had taken to his heels and his small figure was seen flying up
+the beach away from the water.
+
+However, Bab was not thinking of aid. She made straight for the little
+head, which rose for the second time above the waves.
+
+When Barbara reached the spot where she had last seen the child's head
+she dived beneath the surface of the water.
+
+Marian thought that Barbara, too, had lost her life. She began wringing
+her hands and calling for help. In her excitement she had waded to her
+neck in the water and was clinging to the life rope. She did not know
+how to swim, but she had a wild idea that she ought to follow in
+Barbara's lead, and now she clung to the rope and anxiously watched
+Barbara's movements. Bab in the meantime, had dived into deep water and
+was groping blindly for the little figure. At last she seized the child
+by the arm and with lungs bursting rose to the top of the water, when
+suddenly she was struck a fearful and unlooked for blow. She had not
+reckoned with the life line and with the little fellow in her arms had
+come in violent contact with it. She reeled and would have gone under
+but a hand grasped her firmly by the arm and pulled her from under the
+treacherous rope. She had just sense enough to hand the child over to
+Marian Smythe and seize the rope herself. Then she filled her exhausted
+lungs with the fresh air.
+
+On the shore Grace and Mollie were running up and down the sands
+imploring some one to save Bab. Ruth wished to rush out into the water.
+But she knew she could not reach the two exhausted girls.
+
+As for the Count de Sonde, he was nowhere to be seen, while Maud Warren
+stood on the shore helplessly wringing her hands.
+
+In a short time the beach was crowded with people. Marian and Bab had
+brought the little boy in to his nurse. The hotel physician soon took
+the nurse and the baby both away, and the crowd followed them.
+
+Bab flung herself down in the warm sand. Mollie, Ruth and Grace hung
+over her anxiously.
+
+"I'll just rest here a moment," Bab said faintly. "I want to get my
+breath. But do see to Marian. She is a brave girl. She saved my life. I
+struck against the life rope, and would have gone under with the little
+boy had she not caught my arm and held me up."
+
+"You dear, dear girl," said Mollie with a half sob. "How splendid of
+you!"
+
+Then the three girls surrounded Marian and hugged her until they were
+almost as wet as she was.
+
+"I didn't do anything remarkable," she averred, almost shyly. "I went
+into the water after Barbara before I realized what I was doing. I just
+had to catch hold of her arm, because I saw that she was going under.
+You girls are perfectly sweet to me and I am happier to-day than I've
+ever been before."
+
+"Marian," called the cold tones of her mother. "Go up to the hotel at
+once and change your clothing. Your appearance is disgraceful."
+
+Mrs. De Lancey Smythe stalked majestically over to the little group,
+frowning her displeasure. "Whatever possessed you and Miss Thurston to
+rush madly into the water after a child you never saw before?" she said
+to Marian, whose happy face had darkened at her mother's first word.
+"Really, Marian, dear, you are at times past understanding."
+
+"Mrs. Smythe," said Barbara coldly. "We could never have been so
+heartless as to stand on the shore and wait for some one else to rescue
+that little child. I felt it my duty to make some effort and I am sure
+that Marian did."
+
+"Really, Miss Thurston," retorted Mrs. Smythe, "I addressed my remark to
+Marian."
+
+"Yes," said Bab, her eyes flashing, "but you included me in it,
+therefore I felt justified in answering it."
+
+For a moment there was a tense silence. Bab stood looking composedly
+into the angry eyes of Mrs. De Lancey Smythe. Then Ruth said, with
+superb indifference. "Oh, come on, girls, don't waste your whole
+morning, here. Bab, you'll catch cold. Hurry right up to the hotel with
+Marian. Good-bye, Marian, we'll see you later."
+
+Utterly ignoring Mrs. Smythe, Ruth turned on her heel and accompanied by
+Grace and Mollie continued the stroll along the beach.
+
+"My I'd hate to meet Mrs. De Lancey Smythe alone on a dark night,"
+remarked Mollie, with a giggle. "Didn't she look ready to scratch Bab's
+eyes out, though."
+
+"She found her match in Mistress Barbara," observed Grace. "She can't
+intimidate our Bab."
+
+Bab hurried along the beach toward the hotel full of sympathy for the
+luckless Marian, and vowing within herself to be a true friend to the
+girl who had been cheated of her girlhood.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI
+
+THE COUNTESS SOPHIA
+
+
+To be at luncheon with a real countess? What bliss!
+
+Not one of the "Automobile Girls" doubted, for an instant, the
+genuineness of the Countess Sophia von Stolberg. Mrs. De Lancey Smythe's
+calumnies carried no weight with the "Automobile Girls."
+
+To-day the countess was more gentle, more beautiful than she had seemed
+at first. And there was less formality in her manner.
+
+Mollie, who sat at her left at the luncheon table, quite lost the
+feeling of awe that had taken possession of her the afternoon before.
+
+Opposite the countess, at the other end of the table, sat the formidable
+Madame de Villiers, the old lady with the hooked nose and the bird-like
+eyes. She, too, seemed to feel more amiable, for she watched her young
+guests with an amused smile.
+
+"Do you know what I believe Madame de Villiers was thinking all the time
+we were at luncheon?" Ruth asked her friends, when they were discussing
+their visit the following day. "The amused look on her face seemed to
+say: 'This is just another of the countess's pranks, asking these
+strangers to luncheon. But if they amuse her--why not!'"
+
+Madame de Villiers, however, found Miss Sallie Stuart much to her
+liking. Perhaps this was because Miss Sallie was not in the least afraid
+of her, nor inclined to shrink from her, as so many people did.
+
+The story of the morning's adventure had been told. The countess leaned
+admiringly over the great bunch of yellow daffodils in the centre of the
+table and smiled at Bab. Barbara's brown curls were still damp from
+their recent wetting. "Were there no men on that part of the beach when
+the baby was drowning? Why did you have to risk your life in that way?"
+the countess asked.
+
+"There were no men near," Ruth replied. "You see, it was very early in
+the morning. Only the nurse girls and children were abroad."
+
+"There was one man present!" exclaimed Mollie, with a spark of anger in
+her usually gentle blue eyes. "But he was a coward and ran away."
+
+"The Count de Sonde! Oh, yes," continued Ruth, "I had forgotten him."
+
+The countess look startled.
+
+"The Count de Sonde!" she repeated in a puzzled fashion. "He refused to
+help? He ran away?" An expression of incredulity crossed her face.
+
+"He most certainly did run," Mollie declared firmly. "I almost fell on
+my knees to beg him to save Bab. But he did not even take time to refuse
+me. He simply ran away, so as to live to fight another day, I suppose."
+
+"The Count de Sonde!" the young countess returned. "Ah, yes, he is the
+young Frenchman who was here yesterday. Then he is not a friend of
+yours?"
+
+"Certainly not, Countess Sophia," explained Mr. Stuart. "The young man
+is only a chance acquaintance, whom my friend Mr. Warren rescued from a
+difficulty yesterday."
+
+"I, also, am but a chance acquaintance," smiled the young countess.
+
+"Only you were the rescuer, and he was the rescued!" exclaimed Mollie
+quickly, looking fondly at her pretty hostess, who pressed her hand
+under the table.
+
+"We are not in the least interested in the count," Ruth remarked
+bluntly. "We are civil to him because we are trying to help some one."
+
+The countess looked puzzled.
+
+Mr. Stuart laughed. "My dear Countess," he explained, "the 'Automobile
+Girls' are not exactly Knights of the Round Table, but they have a kind
+of league of their own. I think they have formed a sort of Helping Hand
+Society. They have a pretty good theory that there is no reason why boys
+should enjoy all the adventures and thrilling experiences. If there is
+anything to be done, why, do it! Isn't that the motto, girls? I think
+the countess would be amazed if she knew what you have been through in
+the way of adventure. Now, they have undertaken to look after a
+misguided maiden. And I think they are rather piling on the horrors in
+her case."
+
+"Now, Father, you've no right to tease," protested Ruth. "You are the
+very person who made us promise to stand by Maud Warren through thick
+and thin."
+
+"So I did," agreed Mr. Stuart. "But I had no romantic notions that Maud
+was to be protected from the Count de Sonde. I only consented to have
+you persuade Maud from certain undesirable associates by showing her how
+much more desirable you are. Now, I plainly see the object of your
+protective association has changed."
+
+"Now, Father, you are teasing," exclaimed his daughter.
+
+"How can you accuse me of any such thing?" replied Mr. Stuart, his eyes
+twinkling.
+
+"He always teases," Ruth explained to the countess and Madame de
+Villiers. "It's second nature to him. He can't help it. But putting
+aside all jesting, I am going to speak very plainly about several
+things. I am sorry to be obliged to backbite, but really and truly we
+don't like Mrs. De Lancey Smythe. She is the most disagreeable person we
+know, and we are going to try gradually to wean Maud Warren from her.
+Maud thinks that she is wonderful and a great society leader, but I
+think if one made careful inquiry into the matter, one would find her
+name among those missing from the social world."
+
+"Ruth, my dear," expostulated Miss Stuart. "You are entirely too
+impetuous!"
+
+"Do allow her to go on, Miss Stuart," begged Madame de Villiers. "She is
+one after my own heart. It is refreshing to find some one who is not
+afraid to speak plainly."
+
+"Well," continued Ruth, highly elated at receiving the approbation of
+the stern old woman. "We are going to checkmate Mrs. D. L. S. at her own
+game. She is trying to throw Maud in line with her own schemes. Enter
+the 'Automobile Girls.' Exit the enemy. The first battle was fought on
+the beach this morning, and the situation was strongly defended to the
+last word by General Barbara Thurston."
+
+"What do you mean, Ruth?" interrupted her father gravely.
+
+Then Ruth launched forth with the account of Mrs. De Lancey Smythe's
+rudeness to Bab and Bab's reply. "Marian is all right," concluded Ruth,
+"but her mother is an entirely different proposition."
+
+"So it would seem," murmured the countess thoughtfully. "But suppose the
+count is really an eligible person, and has fallen in love, in earnest
+with Miss Warren, and suppose that Miss Warren truly loves him, what
+then? Would Mr. Warren still be opposed to the marriage?"
+
+"I don't know," replied Ruth doubtfully. "But you see Maud is a girl,
+and Mr. Warren feels that she is too young to know her own mind. He is
+afraid that the count's title has dazzled her, and he does not like
+foreigners. He thinks we may be able to disabuse Maud of some of her
+sentimental ideas. Last night we four girls organized a secret society
+for the suppression of fortune hunters, and we thought perhaps you might
+help us----"
+
+"Ruth, my dear child!" protested Miss Sallie greatly shocked.
+
+But old Madame de Villiers' eyes gleamed with amusement.
+
+"Indeed, I shall be most happy to become a member of your secret
+society," rejoined the countess. "How exciting! It must be a real secret
+society, if we are to be serious. Let me see? We should arrange signals
+and plan a campaign. If I am right, Miss Maud Warren needs to be treated
+very delicately and carefully, or she is likely to rebel. Is this not
+so?"
+
+"That is just what we agreed last night," Ruth confessed.
+
+"But how are we going to prove that Count de Sonde is a fortune-hunter?"
+argued Mollie. "For all we know, he may be immensely rich as well as
+illustrious."
+
+"Oh, we shall have to prove that the count is not really in love with
+Mademoiselle Warren," answered the countess, pinching Mollie's cheek.
+She was entering into their little game with a curious zest.
+
+"Or you might prove that he is not a count," interposed Madame de
+Villiers, with an inscrutable expression on her grim old face.
+
+"Do you believe that he is an impostor, Madame de Villiers?" inquired
+Miss Sallie.
+
+For a brief instant the countess's eyes met those of Madame de Villiers.
+
+The old lady shrugged her shoulders and lifted her eyebrows in answer to
+Miss Sallie's question: "The world is so full of impostors, and Europe
+so full of counts," she said.
+
+The countess blushed hotly. There was an awkward silence.
+
+Miss Sallie was sorry she had spoken. But why should such an idle
+question cause annoyance? The young count was surely a stranger to her
+two hostesses. There was nothing to indicate that the young man was in
+earnest about Maud Warren. He had simply paid her casual attentions for
+the past few days.
+
+"Shall you and I become members of this secret society, Madame de
+Villiers?" inquired Miss Stuart, to divert the conversation. "I suppose
+we had better be content with the posts of confidential agents. Because
+I assure you there is no limit to what this society may do."
+
+"And I should prefer to be scout, guardsman, or messenger," agreed Mr.
+Stuart. "I, too, shrink from being an active member of such a vigorous
+organization."
+
+"Then let us leave these faithless people behind, girls," proposed the
+young countess. "Let us run away to the old boathouse and plan our
+campaign. We are not sure that we may safely confide to you our secret
+signals, our hand clasps and our code," she protested to the older
+people.
+
+Madame de Villiers now led the way into the drawing room.
+
+But the young countess ran lightly out of the house, followed by her
+four girl guests. "We'll arrange our secrets while our elders take their
+coffee on the balcony," she suggested.
+
+When the countess and the "Automobile Girls" had disappeared, Madame de
+Villiers smiled a little apologetically at Miss Stuart and her brother.
+"The countess is only a girl herself," she explained. "Of course, she is
+several years older than your girls. Yet, in many ways, she is still
+simply a child."
+
+"She is very beautiful and charming," replied Miss Sallie cordially.
+"You see how she has fascinated our girls."
+
+"So she does everyone," replied Madame de Villiers, shaking her head
+somewhat sadly.
+
+In the meantime the five conspirators were absorbed in devising their
+signals. They were only joking, of course. Yet, somehow, the young
+countess entered so seriously into their make-believe that the girls
+almost forgot they were not in earnest. One thing they conscientiously
+agreed upon--Maud Warren was to be constantly invited to share their
+pleasures with, or without, her objectionable friends.
+
+"Must the Count de Sonde be permitted always to come along with us and
+Maud?" Grace queried. She had been taking little part in the
+conversation, for she had been industriously writing down a list of
+signals for their new organization.
+
+"We must have him, if Maud won't come without him," replied Ruth. "Maud
+must be won over to our side by flattering attentions. Suppose we start
+out being friends with her, by having another luncheon at our hotel.
+Will you come, Countess?"
+
+The countess shook her head gently. "I am sorry," she replied a little
+soberly. "I--" she hesitated a moment. "I fear you will think me rude.
+But I have made it a rule never to appear at the hotels. I will do
+anything else. Suppose we give a picnic? Is not that what you call it in
+English?"
+
+"A picnic would be delightful," agreed Ruth politely. But she could not
+help wondering why the countess was not willing "to appear," as she
+expressed it, at the hotels.
+
+"The signals are ready!" cried Grace. "There are two handshakes. The one
+which denotes danger is like this: Press the forefinger of one hand into
+the palm of the other person's hand when you shake hands."
+
+"That is very clever!" exclaimed the countess. She clasped Mollie's
+little hand. "Now, Mademoiselle Mollie, when you feel my finger press
+your palm like this, you will know that I am greatly in need of your
+help."
+
+"A white ribbon bow worn on the left shoulder, means that a secret
+meeting must be called at once!" Grace declaimed.
+
+"And a blue ribbon bow, worn instead of a white one, proclaims: 'I have
+important information to communicate,'" added the Countess Sophia. "But
+I should have a special signal by which to summon you. Let me see. I
+must be able to signal you from a distance. If I fasten a red flag to
+one of these posts in the day time you must know that I want to see you
+very much."
+
+"But what about a night signal?" asked Grace, who was taking the signals
+very seriously.
+
+The countess laughed. "If ever you should happen to see a bright light
+shining in the tower of my villa, come to me at once. I shall be in
+great danger. Now, is not that exciting?" she cried, clasping her hands
+and smiling at the little company.
+
+At this moment there came a sound of oars dipping in the water. A boat
+glided from under the pavilion, which was built out over the water. The
+boat must have been hugging the shore until it reached the boathouse.
+Then it made for the open water. In the boat was one man. And
+immediately the countess and the four "Automobile Girls" recognized him.
+He was the Frenchman, Monsier Duval!
+
+"I wonder if he has been eavesdropping?" asked Ruth indignantly.
+
+"Oh well, he has heard nothing but make-believe," the countess replied
+lightly, as she led her guests back to the villa.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII
+
+TEA IN THE COCOANUT GROVE
+
+
+Their beloved red automobile, companion in so many adventures and
+faithful friend in time of need, did not accompany the "Automobile
+Girls" to Palm Beach. But Mr. Stuart engaged another larger motor car
+with a chauffeur to run it, as soon as he arrived at the famous southern
+resort. He preferred Ruth to have a chauffeur at her command in case she
+needed him.
+
+There was room in the new automobile for ten persons, and Mr. Stuart,
+Miss Sallie, the four "Automobile Girls," the Countess Sophia and Madame
+de Villiers seated themselves in its cavernous depths. Then the car spun
+out along the famous Shell Road, lined on each side with the tall,
+delicate yucca plants. A fragrant southern breeze fanned the faces of
+the happy party. The sunlight was dazzling, the sky a deep blue. All
+about were masses of tropical vegetation that glittered in the sunshine.
+
+"This place is truly heavenly," exclaimed the Countess Sophia von
+Stolberg. She leaned back in the automobile and closed her eyes. "How
+could one help being happy, surrounded by all this beauty? I am indeed
+very happy to-day. Are you not happy, Cousine?" she murmured, taking
+Madame de Villiers's hand and looking at her with a tender, loving
+expression. The older woman's stern face softened.
+
+"Very happy, my dear," she declared. "This is not a place to remember
+one's troubles."
+
+The countess's face clouded at the word "troubles." She began to say
+something in German, but checked herself. She was far too well-bred to
+speak any language but English before her new friends.
+
+"Yes; this is a small sized heaven," agreed Bab. "A kind of oasis in a
+desert, for over there are the Everglades."
+
+"And what are the Everglades?" inquired the countess.
+
+"The guide-book says they are trackless jungle," explained Bab. "They
+are full of wild animals; wild cats, and panthers, and deer. They have
+poisonous snakes in them, too. Very few white men ever venture in the
+Everglades, but the Indians have trails through them. They often kill
+deer in the jungle and sell them at the hotel."
+
+"It would not be pleasant to be lost in such a place," suggested Mollie.
+She was thinking of her own experience when she was lost in the forest
+in the Berkshire Hills.
+
+"And it would not be easy to find you in the Everglades either, little
+sister," rejoined Bab. "So please beware! Never go into the Everglades
+alone."
+
+"Oh, don't worry," laughed Mollie. "Being lost once was enough for me."
+
+"If you ever do disappear, Mademoiselle Mollie, the secret society will
+never rest until it finds you. We must be very faithful to each other,
+dear fellow members?" laughed the countess.
+
+"I am sure we agree to that," declared Ruth.
+
+Walking along the road ahead of them, Barbara espied two figures.
+
+"Do you know," she demanded, "I believe those two people just in front
+of us are Maud Warren and her count."
+
+It really was Maud loitering along the road accompanied by the count.
+
+"Stop our car, Robert," ordered Miss Sallie.
+
+Maud explained that her motor car had broken down some distance up the
+road. She and the count had decided to walk on. They hoped to be picked
+up by friends.
+
+"Do you mean you were out motoring alone with the Count de Sonde?"
+inquired Miss Stuart severely.
+
+"Why not?" answered Maud, looking insolently at Miss Sallie.
+
+"Ah it is in this free America that one needs no chaperons," said Madame
+de Villiers innocently, but with a gleam of mischief in her eyes.
+
+Maud made no reply. Two angry spots glowed in her cheeks.
+
+The countess now made up her mind to intercede. She did not wish Maud to
+fly into a rage.
+
+"I have had a visit from your friends, the 'Automobile Girls', Miss
+Warren," she said graciously. "Perhaps you will join them when they come
+to see me again."
+
+Maud favored the countess with a chilly stare.
+
+Could it be that Mrs. De Lancey Smythe had been whispering tales about
+the countess in Maud's ears? And had this stupid girl believed what she
+had heard? Ruth felt her heart thump with the embarrassment of the
+situation. What was Maud going to say? Strangely enough Madame de
+Villiers' face held the same look of fear that Ruth's did. Why should
+Madame de Villiers look frightened instead of angry?
+
+But Maud never uttered the insult her lips were trying to frame. Spoiled
+and undisciplined child that she was, when she turned her sneering face
+toward the countess the words suddenly failed her. For the first time
+Maud felt that money, after all, counted for little. There was something
+about this plainly dressed woman that suddenly made her feel mean and
+ashamed. Maud looked deep into the countess's beautiful eyes, then
+answered with unaccustomed meekness. "Thank you so much. I should like
+to come to see you."
+
+In the meantime naughty Mollie was taking a slight revenge upon the
+count.
+
+"You are quite athletic, are you not?" she asked him innocently, her
+baby blue eyes fastened on his.
+
+"I, athletic?" exclaimed the little count in surprise. "Not very,
+Mademoiselle. Why do you ask?"
+
+"Because you run so well," Mollie answered, with a far-away look.
+
+"You refer to this morning, I perceive, Mademoiselle," expostulated the
+count. "I do not swim; therefore I ran for help. But there was no
+danger. Your sister was never in deep water. Yet it was a most effective
+scene. Doubtless the young lady will enjoy being a heroine."
+
+Mollie flushed. "Barbara would have been in danger if Marian had not
+helped to pull her and the child out of the water. And, by the way,
+Marian does not swim either."
+
+"Ah, Mademoiselle Marian? I saw her later," laughed the count. "How
+droll was her appearance and that of your sister also."
+
+Mollie heartily disgusted with the little count turned her back on him.
+
+"Get into the motor car, both of you," ordered Miss Sallie firmly.
+
+A few minutes later their automobile reached the entrance to the
+cocoanut grove.
+
+"Papa, let us stop here and have tea?" asked Ruth.
+
+"A good idea, Ruth," agreed Mr. Stuart, giving the chauffeur the order.
+
+"I am very sorry," interrupted the countess. "But I fear I cannot stop
+this afternoon."
+
+"Oh, please do, Countess!" urged Ruth and her friends. Even Maud's voice
+was heard to join in the general chorus.
+
+The countess hesitated. She looked at Madame de Villiers with
+questioning eyes. It was evident that the young countess also yearned
+for the pleasure of drinking tea under the cocoanut trees. Madame de
+Villiers shrugged her shoulders. She said something softly, so that no
+one else could hear. The countess dropped her white chiffon veil down
+over her face.
+
+"After all, I cannot resist your invitation, Mr. Stuart," the young
+woman agreed. "But may I ask you not to stay long?"
+
+Presently Mr. Stuart's party was seated around a large, rustic table in
+the beautiful cocoanut grove. Hundreds of other people, clad in white
+and light clothes, were seated at other tables. In the distance a band
+played. During the intermissions the listeners could hear the twittering
+and singing of multitudes of birds, which also sojourn for the winter at
+Palm Beach.
+
+The countess was the object of many glances from the people near her,
+although she had not lifted the heavy chiffon veil from her face. She
+was a woman of rarely beautiful presence. There was something regal in
+the set of her small head on her graceful shoulders. Her gown and hat
+were extremely plain and she wore no jewels; but an atmosphere
+surrounded the lovely countess like an aura of sunlight, Ruth thought.
+She was very gentle and sweet, though there was something about her that
+suggested she could be equally stern if the situation required it. Ruth
+hoped never to incur her displeasure.
+
+When tea was served the countess was obliged to throw back her veil.
+
+Madame de Villiers looked at her disapprovingly. Then the old woman cast
+hurried glances about her, but was apparently satisfied.
+
+As for the young countess, she took in a deep breath of the warm, soft
+air laden with the scent of the orange blossoms. She let her eyes wander
+over the grove and smiled as a burst of music floated across to her.
+
+"I am fascinated, enchanted!" she exclaimed. "Mr. Stuart, I thank you
+for the pleasure of this afternoon."
+
+There was always a slight formality in the young countess's manner which
+kept people at a distance.
+
+"Do not thank me, Countess," protested Mr. Stuart. "You and Madame de
+Villiers are conferring an honor upon us."
+
+"Madame de Villiers and I are two lonely women," continued the countess.
+"We have not seen the beauties of this place, except from our piazza.
+How exquisite this grove is! Truly, it is like paradise."
+
+Again the young woman's gaze swept the tea garden. Suddenly her face
+turned white. She bit her lips, and sat as if turned to stone. Her eyes
+were fastened on a group of three men at a nearby table. Madame de
+Villiers had not noticed them. The men had not yet noticed the Stuart's
+guests.
+
+The countess dropped her veil quickly. Ruth and Mollie, sitting on each
+side of the countess, were the only members of the party who felt that
+something had happened, and they were wise enough to be absolutely
+silent. Only the girls' eyes followed the direction of the countess's.
+They, too, saw the three men, one of whom they recognized as Mr. Duval.
+The other two were strangers, foreign-looking men with waxed mustaches
+and light hair.
+
+All at once Mollie felt her hand seized convulsively under cover of the
+table. But the little girl was not prepared for the special mark of
+confidence that the countess was now to bestow on her. As Mollie held
+the countess's hand in her own, she felt a tap, tap in the centre of her
+palm. Like a flash Mollie remembered. The countess had given her the
+danger signal they had agreed upon the day before. Mollie looked quickly
+over at Maud Warren. She presumed the signal indicated that there was
+something the matter with Maud. But Maud was sitting quietly between
+Barbara and Grace Carter.
+
+Then what could the countess mean? Could she be jesting? Mollie did not
+think so. Through the meshes of her white veil the face of the countess
+looked out very white and grave.
+
+Mollie's heart was beating fast. What could she say? What must she do?
+Of one thing she now felt sure. The beautiful Countess Sophia von
+Stolberg was threatened with trouble. She should have all the aid that
+the "Automobile Girls" could give.
+
+"I understand," Mollie now whispered back to her in a low voice. "What
+shall I do?"
+
+"I must leave the tea garden at once," replied the countess quietly.
+"But I do not wish to be observed. Madame de Villiers must go with me,
+but I do not wish the party to break up. That would make us
+conspicuous."
+
+"Ruth and I will go with you. Don't be worried; we will go quietly.
+Wait, I must speak to her."
+
+"Ruth," Mollie spoke softly to her friend. "The countess wishes to go
+home without disturbing any one else. Shall we slip out with her, and
+see her home?"
+
+"Why, of course," answered Ruth politely, although she was somewhat
+mystified.
+
+They were about to arise quietly from the table when they were
+interrupted. A waiter handed a note to Mr. Stuart. Mr. Stuart read it.
+His face turned very red.
+
+Now, if there was one thing in particular that Robert Stuart loathed it
+was an anonymous letter. The message he had just received was not
+signed, and it read:
+
+"Beware of the countess. She is an impostor."
+
+Mr. Stuart crushed the paper in his hand.
+
+"Mr. Stuart," said the low voice of the countess, just at this moment,
+"forgive my leaving so soon. But I must go at once. Mollie and Ruth are
+coming with me." As the countess rose from her chair she glanced hastily
+at the three men at the table near them. These men had also risen. But
+they were not looking at the countess.
+
+The young woman started hurriedly toward the gate. Madame de Villiers
+quickly followed her. So did Ruth, Mollie and Mr. Stuart.
+
+"Please wait here until we come back for you," Ruth said to her aunt.
+
+Monsieur Duval had now crossed the space intervening between the two
+tables. He had seated himself next to Miss Sallie. The other two
+foreigners were moving toward the gate.
+
+Ruth hurried on. She gave her order to the chauffeur. The man was soon
+cranking up the machine. The four women had taken their seats in the
+motor car. At this moment one of the strangers approached Mr. Stuart.
+The other took off his hat and bowed low to the countess. He spoke to
+her in German, but her reply was given in English. It was very plain. "I
+do not know you," she said.
+
+The man spoke again. This time his manner was insolent. Madame de
+Villiers's face grew dark with rage.
+
+"Hurry!" called Ruth to her chauffeur. Mr. Stuart sprang into the
+automobile.
+
+The machine sped on leaving the two strangers standing alone in the
+road.
+
+"Do not worry, Cousine," the countess murmured in the course of their
+ride. "The man who spoke to me made a mistake. You will frighten our
+friends if you are so angry."
+
+Madame de Villiers said nothing. But there was fire in her small shining
+black eyes. Her beaked nose looked as though it might peck at the next
+offender.
+
+Mr. Stuart and the two girls left the countess and her companion at
+their villa. The two women were now composed. Indeed, the countess made
+Ruth and Mollie promise that the "Automobile Girls" would come to see
+her again the next day.
+
+Mollie and Ruth could not help puzzling over the countess as they rode
+back to the cocoanut grove. Mr. Stuart kept his own counsel.
+
+"I am certain there is some mystery about the countess," Ruth avowed.
+"But, whatever the mystery is, the 'Automobile Girls' are on her side!"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII
+
+THE WARNING
+
+
+In the meantime Mr. Duval was making himself exceedingly entertaining to
+Miss Sallie, Grace and Barbara in the tea garden. Maud and the Count de
+Sonde had withdrawn to a seat near the music, and were engrossed in a
+tete-a-tete.
+
+Mr. Duval had traveled widely. He told his little audience about Chinese
+and Japanese tea gardens. He told tales of many lands and gave accounts
+of numerous adventures in which he had participated.
+
+Barbara and Grace listened fascinated. They hardly knew how the time
+passed. At last Mr. Stuart came back with Ruth and Mollie. Mr. Warren
+and Mrs. De Lancey Smythe had joined them, without Marian. Mr. Warren
+was looking for Maud. But Bab wondered how poor Marian had weathered the
+storm that must have broken when Mrs. De Lancey Smythe returned to the
+hotel that morning.
+
+"Where is Marian?" Ruth asked the widow abruptly, looking her straight
+in the eyes.
+
+Mrs. De Lancey Smythe's eyes dropped before Ruth's clear gaze. She
+twirled her parasol, looked annoyed then said frigidly: "Marian has a
+headache this afternoon."
+
+"I trust the wetting she got this morning had nothing to do with it."
+
+"Marian is an impulsive and reckless girl," snapped her mother. "She is
+entirely too fond of disregarding all conventions."
+
+"Has any one seen my daughter?" Mr. Warren's deep voice was now heard
+above the hum of conversation. Mrs. De Lancey Smythe joined him and
+together they strolled over toward Maud and the count. Mrs. De Lancey
+Smythe seized this opportunity to say a few words in favor of the Count
+de Sonde, for it was evident that Mr. Warren had taken a violent dislike
+to the young man. Had some one persuaded the widow to make this appeal,
+or was she genuinely attracted by the young French nobleman?
+
+Mr. Stuart found himself agreeably surprised by Monsieur Duval. When the
+sun began to sink, and the tea drinkers prepared to return to their
+hotel, Mr. Duval occupied a seat in the Stuart automobile. Moreover,
+when he said good-bye on the hotel veranda, he carried with him two
+invitations. One was to dine with the Stuart party that very evening,
+the other, to go with them the next day on a picnic.
+
+No sooner was Bab out of the automobile than she determined to run up to
+Marian's room. She knew the widow had not yet returned. Bab found the
+number of Marian's room from the hotel clerk. Then she got in the
+elevator and went up to the top floor of the hotel.
+
+She knocked at a door in the middle of a long narrow passage, and a
+faint voice said: "Come in."
+
+Bab entered a small bed room situated under the eaves of the hotel roof.
+There were three trunks in the tiny chamber which overlooked a court
+yard. The room was very close and hot. Marian was on the bed. She had
+cried herself to sleep. At Bab's knock she opened her heavy eyes.
+
+"Why, Barbara!" she exclaimed. "It is awfully good of you to come up to
+see me, but Mama would have three fits if she knew you had seen this
+room. I am glad you have come, because I have something special to tell
+you. I----" Poor Marian hesitated and stopped.
+
+Barbara looked at her with questioning eyes.
+
+"I am afraid it is dreadfully disloyal of me to say another word."
+Marian pressed her hands to her temples. "And I haven't anything really
+definite to tell you. But, oh Barbara, I have a suspicion that something
+may happen soon! Will you remember that I had nothing to do with it, and
+that I mean to prevent it if I can?"
+
+Barbara, completely mystified, hardly knew what to reply.
+
+"Do you mean to warn me, Marian?" she asked her new friend. "Do you mean
+that something is going to happen that may concern us?"
+
+"No; not exactly," Marian answered. Then she made an impetuous movement.
+"Please don't question me," she begged. "There is a reason why I dare
+not answer your questions. Forget what I have said, if you can. But for
+goodness' sake, don't mention to Mama that I have talked with you. I
+sometimes wonder what will become of us. Things can't go on much longer.
+There is sure to be a grand crash. But please go, now, Barbara, Mama
+might come in and she would be very angry to find you here. I will see
+you to-night."
+
+Barbara did not meet Mrs. De Lancey Smythe as she left Marian's room,
+but she did run across her in the evening. The widow was hurrying
+through a side corridor in the hotel. She was wrapped in a long dark
+cloak, and appeared to be trying to leave the hotel by stealth. Bab drew
+back into one end of the corridor until the widow had disappeared, then
+she walked slowly out on the piazza. Marian's warning was ringing in her
+ears. What was it that Marian had feared might happen, and why did her
+mother leave the hotel in that stealthy mysterious manner?
+
+On the piazza Bab found her own friends enjoying the beauty of the
+night. Maud and the Count de Sonde were talking just outside the group.
+
+"Do you know what I heard to-day?" remarked Mr. Stuart. "I understand
+that there is a swindler abroad at Palm Beach. A woman at that."
+
+"You don't mean it," exclaimed Miss Sallie. "How dreadful!"
+
+"It seems," continued Mr. Stuart, "that the detectives have been on the
+watch for her for some time, but so far she has been too clever for
+them. However, they have traced her to the Beach, but among the hundreds
+of tourists they have lost their clue. They do not despair of finding
+her yet, and a strict watch is being kept. She may be apprehended at any
+moment."
+
+"Well, let's hope she doesn't attempt to swindle us," commented Ruth.
+"By the way where is Monsieur Duval? He disappeared mysteriously the
+moment dinner was over."
+
+"He had an engagement, and begged to be excused," replied Mr. Stuart.
+"He said he would return in a little while."
+
+"Speaking of angels," remarked Mollie, "here he comes now."
+
+"Yes, and he's towing along our pet aversion Mrs. D. L. Smythe," said
+Grace.
+
+Bab looked toward the approaching pair.
+
+Monsier Duval and Mrs. De Lancey Smythe not yet aware that they were
+under the observation of the Stuart party, were deeply engaged in
+conversation.
+
+Barbara, watching closely, saw the Frenchman glance up, then he quickly
+dropped his eyes, and an expression of cautious cunning flitted over his
+face. His lips moved, the widow gave a half frightened look, then her
+expression of absorption changed to one of languid indifference. As the
+two neared the steps, from their demeanor, one would have concluded them
+to be mere acquaintances.
+
+What was the meaning of it all? Barbara wondered. And what secret
+understanding was there between those two people? Bab's observant eye
+noted that Monsieur Duval carried over one arm the heavy cloak in which
+she had seen the widow wrapped a short time before. Had Mrs. De Lancey
+Smythe gone to meet the Frenchman, and, if so why did she not do so
+openly? Suppose Mrs. De Lancey Smythe were an impostor, with a game to
+play. Suppose Mr. Duval were--Barbara sighed impatiently. She was
+letting her imagination run riot. She resolved to dismiss the whole
+tiresome business from her mind, and enjoy herself.
+
+At that moment Maud Warren came languidly forward, the little count at
+her heels. "Miss Stuart," she announced, "I have persuaded Papa to let
+me give a masked ball before we go back to New York. There are a number
+of smart people here at Palm Beach, and I want the count to see one of
+our American balls. We shall wear our masks until midnight, and then
+have a cotillon afterwards."
+
+"That will be delightful, Maud!" replied Ruth. "And that reminds me.
+Father and I have never arranged about our picnic to-morrow. Don't you
+think it would be fun to motor over to the big ostrich farm and have our
+luncheon there under the trees?"
+
+"Very delightful," agreed Maud. "Don't you think so, Count?"
+
+"I shall be charmed," replied the little count, with an exaggerated bow.
+
+"But we shan't," whispered Mollie, naughtily to Barbara, under cover of
+general conversation.
+
+"In order to cure, we must endure," returned Bab in an undertone.
+Whereupon the sisters both chuckled softly.
+
+At this juncture Marian appeared at the end of the piazza, and came
+slowly toward the group. Her eyes still showed traces of tears, and she
+looked ill and wretched.
+
+Mr. Stuart greeted Marian kindly, and immediately invited her to Ruth's
+picnic. And the invitation, of course, had to include Marian's mother.
+"I am sorry you have been ill," he said courteously, interrupting his
+conversation with Mr. Duval.
+
+Monsieur Duval's eyes rested curiously on Marian. His look searched her
+face. "Perhaps the climate of Palm Beach does not agree with your
+health," he suggested. "You do not like it here?"
+
+"It is not a question of what I like or dislike, Mr. Duval," said Marian
+curtly.
+
+"But what do you prefer?" persisted the Frenchman with a shade of
+interest in his manner.
+
+"To mind my own affairs," returned Marian coldly, turning her back on
+Monsieur Duval.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX
+
+A CASE OF MISTAKEN IDENTITY
+
+
+Early the next afternoon the picnickers sallied forth in two
+automobiles, going first to the villa for the Countess Sophia and Madame
+de Villiers, then the two cars sped along the country road in the
+direction of the ostrich farm. Marian, Mollie, Mrs. De Lancey Smythe,
+Miss Stuart, Barbara, Maud and the Count de Sonde were in the foremost
+car, while the remainder of the party occupied the car first rented by
+Mr. Stuart, with Ruth as chauffeur.
+
+"Why don't you start a song?" called Ruth over her shoulder. "Grace,
+sing something. Sing 'My Old Kentucky Home.'"
+
+Grace sang the plaintive old melody in her sweet, high soprano voice.
+
+The Countess Sophia was enchanted. "What a charming song!" she declared.
+"What an exquisite melody. I have not heard it before. Is it not one of
+your old southern songs?"
+
+"Won't you sing, Countess?" begged Mr. Stuart.
+
+The countess shook her head and smiled. "I do not care to sing alone,"
+she avowed. "But I am sure Monsieur Duval has the throat of a singer.
+Will you not sing a song of your country, Monsieur?"
+
+"If you will sing a song of your land in return," answered the Frenchman
+quickly. Could it be that he, too, was curious to discover to a
+certainty the Countess Sophia von Stolberg's nationality?
+
+The countess dropped her eyes under Mr. Duval's steady gaze.
+
+"I do not sing without an accompaniment, Monsieur," she said briefly.
+
+Madame de Villiers looked annoyed. Grace and Ruth wondered why the
+countess should be so secretive. She spoke French, German and English
+almost equally well. On her library table Ruth had discovered a number
+of Italian books.
+
+Monsieur Duval did not press his request. The Frenchman had very
+polished manners. Instead in a full baritone voice he sang the
+"Marseillaise." His audience was profoundly stirred. "You are a patriot,
+Mr. Duval," Mr. Stuart remarked.
+
+Monsieur Duval's expression changed. But he said nothing. It was
+impossible to translate his peculiar look.
+
+"Do sing for us, Countess," begged Grace later. "I know you have a
+wonderful voice."
+
+"Remember, you are to give us a song of your country," Mr. Duval
+persisted.
+
+The countess made no reply to him. But in a voice clear as a bell she
+sang:
+
+  "Thou art like unto a flower."
+
+"But that is an English song," expostulated Mr. Duval when the countess
+had finished.
+
+"Yes, but it was written first by a German poet: Du bist wie eine
+blume," sang the countess, this time in German. "Shall I try it in
+French and Italian for you? The little song has been translated into
+every tongue."
+
+It was evident to her listeners that the Countess Sophia von Stolberg
+was proficient in half a dozen languages.
+
+Grace thought she caught a glimpse of concealed amusement on Madame de
+Villiers's face. But the stately old woman said nothing.
+
+The motor party had now arrived at the ostrich farm. Mollie, the
+countess and Bab ran on ahead. Ruth slipped her arm through Maud
+Warren's. The count joined them, but Ruth did not withdraw her arm. Maud
+did not seem to mind Ruth's "playing gooseberry." Maud was really
+becoming fond of the "Automobile Girls." It was plain, however, that the
+Count de Sonde had eyes only for Maud.
+
+The Count de Sonde, who wore high heeled shoes to make him look taller,
+walked with the two girls. He talked constantly, using his hands and
+shoulders to emphasize his remarks.
+
+"You see, Mademoiselle Maud," he explained. "My parents died when I was
+a mere infant. Most of my life I have spent in Paris. I do not often go
+to the Chateau de Sonde. But I love dearly the home of my ancestors."
+
+"How much land have you around your castle, Count?" asked Ruth.
+
+The count looked annoyed at the question. "It is a very large estate,"
+he answered vaguely.
+
+But Ruth was determined to secure definite information. "Is your chateau
+on a hill or in a valley?" she next inquired.
+
+The count shrugged his shoulders. "It is on the side of a mountain,
+overlooking a valley," he declared.
+
+The picnic party had now arrived in front of the cages containing the
+ostriches. The great birds were strolling about in fine disdain.
+
+But Ruth's mind dwelt on the Chateau de Sonde. She was frankly curious
+about it. "Have you ever visited the Count de Sonde at his chateau, Mr.
+Duval?" inquired Ruth, who happened to be standing next the Frenchman.
+
+[Illustration: The Count Walked With the Two Girls.]
+
+ "A number of times, Miss Stuart," answered Monsieur Duval. "The count
+and I are old friends."
+
+"Is it built on a mountain or in a valley?" queried Ruth. She did not
+know herself exactly why she repeated her question.
+
+"The Chateau de Sonde nestles in the heart of a valley," was Monsieur
+Duval's prompt answer.
+
+He caught Ruth's eyes fixed on him with an expression of wonder. But it
+was Ruth, not Monsieur Duval, who blushed furiously. The man's eyes were
+gray and inscrutable. "Why do you ask, Mademoiselle?" he inquired.
+
+"I don't know," Ruth answered lamely. The man frightened her. He seemed
+so brilliant, so traveled, so strong, so dangerous. And yet, he had just
+told Ruth a lie. Why should he pretend he had visited at the Chateau de
+Sonde?
+
+"Come, everybody; it is time for luncheon," called Mr. Stuart an hour
+later, when his guests had finished their survey of the ostrich cages.
+
+The "Automobile Girls" opened their immense lunch basket, which the
+chauffeur had set under the trees. The Countess Sophia insisted on
+helping the girls. She was all radiant smiles and gayety. She hummed a
+song to herself full of delicious, bird-like trills, in a voice that had
+been wonderfully trained. In every way the countess showed what pleasure
+she felt in the picnic. So much so that she was easily the central
+figure of the party.
+
+Finally the entire company seated themselves in a circle on the ground,
+Maud Warren and her father with flushed faces. They had evidently been
+having a private altercation about the Count de Sonde. The count however
+looked serenely unconscious of the fact.
+
+A sense of tranquility and cheerfulness soon stole over every one. The
+day was enchanting. The chicken and nut sandwiches and other eatables
+tasted unusually good, and the party did full justice to the tempting
+luncheon the Stuarts had provided.
+
+All the guests laughed and talked at the same time. Suddenly the
+countess began to sing again in a low voice: "Knowest thou the land?"
+from "Mignon."
+
+The others listened with delight.
+
+Down the avenue a vehicle was heard approaching. There was a cloud of
+dust enveloping it. It was impossible for the picnic party to
+distinguish the occupants of the carriage. The countess's back was
+turned toward the equipage. She did not look around. Mollie and Ruth
+were glad that she did not turn, for they recognized the two foreigners
+who had frightened the young Countess Sophia in the tea garden the
+afternoon before.
+
+The men drove up to a palm tree near the spot where Mr. Stuart's guests
+were eating. They hitched their horse. Then they walked deliberately
+over to the picnickers. Without a word one of the men reached down. He
+touched the Countess Sophia von Stolberg on the arm.
+
+Undoubtedly he was German. His face looked threatening and his manner
+was insulting. His companion waited near him. The Countess Sophia
+shuddered as the stranger touched her. She trembled and turned pale like
+a frightened child.
+
+"Madame," said the German, "you are wanted by the police. We have been
+sent to arrest you."
+
+Mrs. De Lancey Smythe gave a hysterical laugh of triumph.
+
+But the young countess quickly recovered her self-control.
+
+"You have made a mistake," she returned quietly, to the man, whose hand
+still rested on her arm. "What have I done to be arrested? You have no
+right to annoy me."
+
+"You are the notorious swindler wanted by the police of two continents,"
+accused the German. "I am here to take you back to France where you are
+wanted."
+
+Madame de Villiers now arose. She lifted her great mahogany cane, her
+face dark with anger.
+
+"You will regret this day's work," she announced. "Be gone!"
+
+But she had hardly finished her speech, before Mr. Stuart was on his
+feet. He seized the intruder by the collar, and before the man could
+more than raise his hand from the Countess Sophia's arm, he was hurled
+several feet away, landing in a heap on the ground.
+
+"You foreign idiot," cried Mr. Stuart, forgetting his women guests in
+his anger. "How dare you come here and create a disturbance among my
+friends. You are without a warrant or a policeman. The Countess Sophia
+von Stolberg is our friend. You shall pay dearly for your insolence.
+Leave this place without a second's delay or I shall lay violent hands
+on you."
+
+The two strangers did not dare defy Mr. Stuart. Mr. Warren had also
+risen and hurried to his friend's aid and the two Americans looked
+thoroughly capable of enforcing their commands.
+
+The foreigners went back to their carriage. After a slight delay they
+drove off, still muttering veiled threats.
+
+When they had disappeared down the avenue, Countess Sophia gave Mr.
+Stuart her hand.
+
+"I thank you, Monsieur," she said. "Madame de Villiers and I are alone.
+It is good to have a protector. I do not know why those men attempted to
+arrest me without a warrant. I assure you they had not just cause. I
+believe they were sent by an enemy."
+
+"Perhaps, Countess," replied Mr. Stuart, "those two men think you are
+some one else. I know there is a notorious swindler at large at Palm
+Beach. It is probably a case of mistaken identity."
+
+The Countess Sophia made no answer. Barbara, who was watching her
+closely, saw a look of unmistakable fear leap into her dark eyes at the
+mention of the word "swindler." Bab glanced quickly about her and
+encountered the eyes of Monsieur Duval. In them was an expression of
+cruel triumph that made Bab feel certain that he was in some way
+responsible for the late unpleasant scene.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X
+
+THE SECRET SIGNALS
+
+
+Ruth was stretched out on a steamer rug on the warm sands, lazily
+looking out over the blue waters.
+
+Barbara was disporting herself in the waves like a water sprite who had
+dared to show herself among mortals. Many of the bathers stopped to
+watch with admiration the figure of the young girl plunging gracefully
+through the waves.
+
+But Ruth was not watching Barbara. She was thinking deeply.
+
+Why had the Countess Sophia von Stolberg refused to prosecute the two
+foreigners who had deliberately insulted her?
+
+Immediately after their return from the picnic Mr. Stuart had written
+the young countess a note. He suggested that he have the two strangers
+put out of their hotel, even driven away from Palm Beach. But the
+countess's reply had been polite, but firm. No; she did not wish to
+prosecute her annoyers. The men had simply made a mistake. There would
+be less notoriety if she let the matter drop.
+
+Mr. Stuart was not satisfied. He assured the countess that he and Mr.
+Warren had sufficient influence to have the two men sent away without
+the least publicity attending their dismissal. Still the decision of the
+countess remained unchanged. She graciously thanked Mr. Stuart for his
+kindness, but she really preferred to let the whole matter drop.
+
+There was nothing more to be said.
+
+Ruth now observed these same two men. They were seated not far from her,
+watching Barbara with stolid admiration. So far as Ruth knew they had
+not repeated their attempt to arrest the countess. But they had not
+confessed their error, nor offered to apologize either to Mr. Stuart or
+to the countess.
+
+The story that there was a notorious woman swindler at large at Palm
+Beach was now common gossip.
+
+"It is absurd to suspect the countess," Ruth thought as she reviewed the
+recent disagreeable incident. "If the scandal goes any further I shall
+side with her, no matter what may be the consequences." Ruth ended her
+reverie by making this last statement aloud. But she was sorry a second
+later.
+
+A voice spoke at her elbow. "Do you think, Mademoiselle Ruth," it
+inquired, "that suspicion of a certain person will reach a point where
+you will be required to take sides?"
+
+Ruth started. She had been in a brown study, and was embarrassed and
+annoyed at having been caught speaking aloud.
+
+The voice belonged to Monsieur Duval. He had come dripping from his swim
+in the ocean, and had laid himself in the sand directly behind Ruth
+without her noticing him.
+
+"To what suspicion do you refer, Mr. Duval?" Ruth asked haughtily. She
+knew this clever Frenchman could read her mind like an open book. But
+she did not intend to confess that her remark had referred to the young
+countess.
+
+Monsieur Duval smiled. "I am afraid I listened at the door of your
+thoughts," he said. "I think I can guess with whom you intend to take
+sides. But I promise not to betray your secret. I am sorry I overheard
+your last remark. Yet I do not see why you think the Countess Sophia may
+be accused of being this notorious woman criminal. It is true she allows
+herself to be persecuted without reason. She will not appear at this, or
+any other hotel, and keeps herself as much in seclusion as possible.
+Also she will not tell us the country of her birth, nor does she refer
+to any friends, but----" Monsieur Duval stopped.
+
+Ruth was indignant at the array of evidence that this Monsieur Duval was
+able to present against the young countess. She flushed guiltily, but
+wisely refrained from answering the Frenchman.
+
+Mr. Duval was obliged to continue the conversation.
+
+"Do you wish to help your friend?" he asked Ruth quietly.
+
+"Of course," Ruth replied warmly.
+
+The Frenchman leaned over. "Then watch everything, but say nothing. And,
+above all things, do not have a too accurate memory."
+
+Ruth was about to make an angry retort, when Mr. Duval skilfully changed
+the subject of their conversation. He praised Bab's wonderful diving. It
+reminded him of Neapolitan boys he had seen diving for pennies. Mr.
+Duval next told Ruth of a walking trip he had once made through southern
+Italy. She listened very much against her will to the entertaining
+Frenchman and it was with distinct relief that she saw Miss Sallie
+approaching them, dressed in an imported lavender linen and carrying a
+parasol and a book.
+
+Maud and her count appeared from the opposite direction. They also came
+forward to join Ruth and Monsieur Duval. Bab ran up the beach, shaking
+the drops of water from her blue bathing suit, her wet curls sparkling
+in the sun.
+
+Mr. Duval did not wish to remain with so large a party. His words had
+been for Ruth's ears alone. As Miss Stuart approached he bowed
+ironically to Ruth and strolled away.
+
+"How glad I am that we are not in the cold, sleet and blizzards of
+Chicago, child," Miss Stuart remarked, bringing Ruth back to earth
+again. "The Countess Sophia was right in saying our American climate in
+the north is unbearable in the winter time. I never felt so well in my
+life as I do in this delightful place."
+
+"Aunt Sallie," asked Ruth thoughtfully, ignoring the weather, and going
+back to the idea that was uppermost in her mind. "Do you think the
+Countess Sophia could be in need of money?"
+
+"How can I tell, child?" replied Miss Sallie. "The countess dresses
+plainly, but her gowns are in excellent taste. They are made by a
+modiste in Vienna, who, I happen to know, is one of the most expensive
+in Europe. On the other hand Madame de Villiers and the countess live
+very quietly. They keep only two servants. But the countess has the air
+of a woman of wealth and culture."
+
+"Are we going to dine with the countess to-morrow night?" asked Ruth
+impetuously.
+
+"Certainly, child," Miss Sallie replied, her serenity undisturbed. "It
+is true your father may not have returned from his fishing trip, but
+there is no reason why we should not go without him."
+
+Ruth closed her eyes. Could it be possible that they might be invited to
+eat food paid for by money gained dishonestly? Surely Monsieur Duval
+could not have spoken the truth!
+
+"Here comes that Mrs. De Lancey Smythe," remarked Miss Sallie with
+sudden energy. "I do wish that woman would keep away from us."
+
+"Aunt Sallie," said Ruth, "what do you dislike most about Mrs. De Lancey
+Smythe?"
+
+"Don't ask me, my dear," returned Miss Stuart rather impatiently.
+"Everything I should say. I must confess that the very sight of her
+irritates me."
+
+"There is something peculiar about her, at any rate," said Ruth, "I have
+seen her face grow hard as rock and look positively wicked when she
+thought no one was noticing her. Marian is afraid of her, too."
+
+"Nonsense, Ruth," replied Miss Sallie severely. "You and Barbara let
+your imaginations have too free rein. I don't approve of the woman and
+dislike her intensely, but I am not going to make her out an ogre."
+
+"She is, though," persisted Ruth. "That's why you don't like her, only
+you don't know it yourself. Some day you'll see I am right. Oh, here
+come Mollie and Grace. What's new, chilluns?" and springing to her feet
+Ruth called to Bab then hurried toward the approaching girls.
+
+Mollie and Grace had been out in a boat all morning with some new
+friends they had made at the hotel. As Ruth walked toward them she
+noticed that Mollie's cheeks were very red, and that she wore a look of
+suppressed excitement. Grace seemed almost equally agitated. Before she
+could reach them, however, she was hailed by a crowd of young people who
+were strolling on the beach, and she and Bab were obliged to stop and
+hold conversation.
+
+Mollie felt that it was imperative to summon Bab and Ruth. How could she
+manage without being observed? A sudden thought came to her. Putting her
+hand back to her curls she hastily untied the ribbon that bound them.
+The ribbon was blue. In an instant Mollie twisted it into a bow knot and
+pinned it on her left shoulder. Would Barbara and Ruth remember what the
+secret signal meant?
+
+Mollie need not have wondered. Hastily separating themselves from the
+crowd of talkers Bab and Ruth sped up the beach to join Mollie and
+Grace.
+
+"What is it, Mollie?" cried Bab out of breath. "I remember the blue
+ribbon. It was to signify: 'I have important news to communicate!' What
+has happened?"
+
+"As we passed the countess's villa on the launch, this morning," Mollie
+whispered mysteriously, "we saw a red flag tied to one of the posts of
+her pavilion. The countess wishes to see us on important business!"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI
+
+WHEELS WITHIN WHEELS
+
+
+"Shall we go to the countess at once, Ruth?" asked Barbara.
+
+Ruth hesitated. "The chauffeur has gone away for the day," she replied.
+"And we have no one to take us by boat to the villa."
+
+Mollie's blue eyes filled with tears. She had feared that Ruth suspected
+their lovely countess. Now she was sure of it. How absurd for Ruth to
+suggest they could not use the automobile because her chauffeur was
+away. The "Automobile Girls" had traveled for days at a time, with Ruth
+as her own chauffeur, while the trip to the countess's villa represented
+only a few miles.
+
+"How can you be so cruel, Ruth?" Mollie cried. "You just don't want to
+go to the countess's aid because you have listened to tales about her
+from that horrid Mrs. Smythe."
+
+"I haven't listened to Mrs. Smythe, Mollie," Ruth answered soothingly.
+"But I have been thinking. You can't deny that there is a good deal of
+mystery surrounding the Countess Sophia. There are many things that it
+seems to me she might explain. I don't wish to be hateful, and of course
+I can drive our car over to the countess's, though I have never taken
+out such a big car alone before. Come; let's get ready."
+
+Barbara hesitated. "Mollie," she protested, "I don't think it is right
+for us to make Ruth take us to see the countess, if she would rather not
+go."
+
+Mollie bit her lips. "Ruth Stuart," she said, "you talk about the
+countess explaining things. What have you ever asked her to explain? If
+there is anything you want to know about her, ask her to tell you. It is
+not fair to keep silent, and still not to trust her."
+
+Ruth had a sudden conviction that she would as soon approach the Queen
+of England to inquire into her private affairs as to ask questions of
+the Countess Sophia von Stolberg.
+
+"Well, Mollie, I will say this much," Ruth conceded. "I never doubt our
+countess when I am with her. She is so beautiful and sweet that I forget
+to be suspicious. But, when I am away from her, I have just wondered a
+little, that's all! Now, don't be cross, Barbara, but come with me. I am
+going to get out the automobile. Grace, will you and Mollie explain to
+Aunt Sallie where we are going?"
+
+"I'll tell you what, Ruth," Bab suggested. "Let us make up our minds not
+to suspect the countess because of any gossip we hear. There seems to be
+a great deal of talking going on, but nobody makes any definite charges.
+The countess has been delightful to us. I am afraid I am on her side as
+much as Mollie. The countess, right or wrong, but still the countess!"
+
+"Loyal Bab!" cried Ruth, patting Barbara's hand. "See, I cast all my
+suspicions away!" Ruth waved her other hand. "The cause of the countess
+is my cause also. I shall fight for her, through thick and thin." Ruth
+looked as though she meant what she said.
+
+The "Automobile Girls" were soon on their way to the countess's pretty
+villa. Mollie still held herself apart from the other three girls. She
+felt that no one of them had risen to the defence of her adored countess
+with the ardor she expected.
+
+Ruth was running the car slowly. It was only a few miles to the villa.
+Ruth was a cautious chauffeur, and was not in the habit of managing so
+large an automobile.
+
+As her car moved quietly and steadily toward its destination, another
+small automobile dashed past it. Ruth glanced about quickly. The man who
+drove the small car was exceeding the speed limit. He was alone. He wore
+a long dust coat with the collar turned up to his ears; he had a cap
+pulled low over his face, and he wore an immense pair of green goggles.
+But Ruth's quick eyes recognized him. Her three companions paid little
+attention to the man.
+
+"Bab," said Ruth, at almost the same instant that the small car swept by
+them, "it is Monsieur Duval who is driving that car!"
+
+"Well," replied Bab, "what of it? I did not know Mr. Duval was a
+motorist. But I am not surprised, for he seems to know almost
+everything."
+
+"Bab, I think he is on his way to see the Countess Sophia von Stolberg,"
+Ruth announced with conviction.
+
+"He does not know the countess, does he?" Grace inquired. "I think he
+was introduced to her only through us."
+
+"I don't know what Monsieur Duval knows and what he doesn't know,"
+explained Ruth. "But I should like to find out. Anyhow, I am going to
+beat him to the countess's house. If she has something important to tell
+us, Monsieur Duval shall not keep us from hearing it."
+
+Ruth put on full speed and started her car in pursuit of the flying
+automobile in front of her. In a few seconds she drew near the
+automobile. The little car was on the right side of the road and making
+its best speed. Ruth sounded her horn. She swerved her great car to the
+left in order to pass the smaller one.
+
+Bab uttered a cry of terror. Mollie and Grace both screamed. Ruth's face
+turned white, but she had no time to scream.
+
+The small motor car just in front of her immense automobile turned like
+a flash. It swept across the road immediately in the path of Ruth's
+on-coming car, and not more than a few paces ahead of her.
+
+It was either a mad piece of foolishness on the part of the chauffeur,
+or a magnificent dare. At the moment Ruth did not stop to wonder whether
+the man ahead of her had deliberately risked his life and theirs in
+order to accomplish some purpose. All her ability as a driver was needed
+to meet the situation.
+
+Ruth's hands never left the steering wheel of her car. In less than a
+half second, she put on the full stop brake. With a terrific wrench her
+great automobile settled back. It stopped just one foot this side of the
+car that had crossed their path.
+
+Ruth was white with anger. She saw, a moment later, that the driver
+ahead of her had accomplished his design. For no sooner had Ruth's car
+stopped, than the other motorist forged ahead. Ruth resumed the chase,
+but she was obliged to be careful. She dared not risk the lives of her
+friends by driving too close to the other car. The man ahead might
+repeat his trick. Ruth could not be sure that she could always stop her
+motor in so brief a space of time and distance.
+
+So the smaller of the two automobiles arrived first at the countess's
+villa.
+
+The Countess Sophia von Stolberg evidently expecting a visit from the
+"Automobile Girls," sat at her piano in her drawing-room, playing one of
+Chopin's nocturnes. At the sound of the automobile outside on the avenue
+the countess left her music and ran out on her veranda to meet her young
+visitors. But instead of the four girls a heavy, well-built man in a
+long dust coat and goggles approached the countess. The countess did not
+recognize him at once. A suave voice soon enlightened her. "Madame," it
+said. "I have come to see you on an important matter of business. I must
+see you alone."
+
+"What business can you have with me, Monsieur Duval?" asked the young
+countess coldly. But her voice trembled slightly.
+
+"I bring you news of a friend," declared Mr. Duval quietly.
+
+"I have no friends whom you could know, Monsieur," answered the Countess
+Sophia.
+
+"No?" her visitor replied, shrugging his shoulders and speaking in a
+light bantering tone. "Shall I inform you, then, and your young friends,
+whom I now see approaching?"
+
+Ruth's motor car was now in plain sight. The four girls rushed forward
+to join the countess.
+
+At the same moment the tap-tap of a stick was heard inside the house.
+Madame de Villiers appeared, followed by Johann with a tray of lemonade.
+
+The countess spoke quickly. "No, no, you must say nothing to me, now. I
+cannot listen to you. Please go away."
+
+Bab noticed that the countess was trembling when she took her hand.
+
+Monsieur Duval bowed courteously to Ruth. "Mademoiselle," he declared,
+"I owe you an apology. I fear I am but a poor chauffeur. My car swerved
+in front of yours on the road. It was unpardonable. I offer you many
+thanks for your skill. You saved us from a bad smash-up."
+
+Ruth colored. Hot words rose to her lips. But she feared to say too
+much. She looked at Mr. Duval gravely. "I think, Mr. Duval," she
+remarked, as suavely as the Frenchman could have spoken, "it will be
+wise for you not to run a motor car unless you learn how to handle it
+better. You are right. We were exposed to great danger from your
+carelessness."
+
+Madame de Villiers now gazed sternly at Monsieur Duval. "Have I the
+pleasure of your acquaintance?" she inquired coldly, turning her
+lorgnette on the Frenchman.
+
+Monsieur Duval lost some of his self-assurance in the presence of this
+beak-nosed old lady. "I met you at Mr. Stuart's picnic, Madame," he
+explained. "Good-bye, ladies." Monsieur Duval bowed low. Then he turned
+to the countess. "I will deliver my news to you, Countess Sophia,
+whenever you are pleased to hear it." A moment later the Frenchman
+disappeared. But on his way back to his hotel he smiled. "If life were
+not a lottery it would be too stupid to endure. Yet this is the first
+time in my career that a group of young girls have tried to beat me at
+my own game."
+
+When the Frenchman had finally gone the countess turned to Mollie, and
+kissed her. Then she looked affectionately at Bab, Grace and Ruth.
+
+"You saw my signal, didn't you?" she asked, smiling. "What an energetic
+society to come to me in such a hurry! I really have something to tell
+you. It is something serious. Yet I must ask you to trust me, if I tell
+you only part of a story. I cannot tell you all. As it is much too
+beautiful to stay indoors, suppose we go to my pavilion down by the
+water."
+
+On the way to the boathouse, Ruth stopped to embrace Mollie. "Mollie,
+darling, forgive me!" she whispered. "I promise you never to doubt our
+lovely countess again. She is perfect."
+
+When the Countess Sophia and the four "Automobile Girls" were safely in
+the boathouse, the young hostess sighed. "I am sorry to talk about
+disagreeable things to-day," she murmured. "You cannot understand what a
+pleasure it is to me to know four such charming young girls. I have had
+so few companions in my life. Indeed I have been lonely, always."
+
+The "Automobile Girls" were silent. They hardly knew what to reply.
+
+"I must try to tell you why I sent for you," the countess went on. "I
+want to warn you----"
+
+"About the Count de Sonde?" cried Mollie, who had never gotten over her
+first prejudice.
+
+"Yes," replied the countess slowly. "I think I promised to help you save
+your girl friend Maud Warren. I am afraid she and the count are more
+interested in each other than you girls imagine." The countess faltered
+and looked fearfully about her. "You must not let Miss Warren marry the
+Count de Sonde," she murmured. "You must stop such a wedding at all
+hazards. The Count de Sonde is----"
+
+"Is what?" asked Barbara.
+
+The countess shook her head. Again she blushed painfully. "I cannot tell
+you now," explained the countess. "But I know this. If Miss Warren
+marries the Count de Sonde she will regret it all her life."
+
+"But how can we prevent Maud's marrying the count if she wishes to do
+so?" queried practical Bab. "Unless you can tell us something definite
+against the count, we cannot go to Mr. Warren or Maud. Mr. Warren has
+already forbidden Maud to have anything to do with the Count de Sonde,
+but Maud continually disobeys her father."
+
+"I am sorry," said the young countess hesitatingly. "I wish I dared tell
+you more. But I can explain nothing. Only I warn you to be careful."
+
+"Need we to fear the Frenchman, Monsieur Duval?" Ruth asked
+thoughtfully.
+
+The countess was silent for a moment. Then she said slowly, "You must
+fear him most of all!"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII
+
+MAUD REFUSES TO BE RESCUED
+
+
+When the "Automobile Girls" chaperoned by Miss Sallie, descended to the
+hotel ball room that evening, where a hop was in progress, the orchestra
+was playing the "Blue Danube" and Maud and the Count de Sonde were
+waltzing together. The spectators seated along the wall smiled in spite
+of themselves for the count's style of dancing was far from graceful.
+His idea of waltzing consisted in whirling his partner round and round,
+and as Maud was at least four inches taller than the count and very
+thin, the effect was indescribably ridiculous.
+
+"How absurd the count looks!" Bab exclaimed to Ruth. "Just look at those
+high heels and that strutting walk! Do you suppose Maud Warren can
+really care for him?"
+
+"No; I don't think she cares for him at all," Ruth returned. "It is the
+lure of his title that has fascinated Maud. The title, 'Count de Sonde'
+is like music in her ears."
+
+"Do you think Mr. Warren would disinherit Maud, if she married the
+count?" asked Bab.
+
+Ruth shook her head. "Mr. Warren gave Maud half a million dollars in her
+own name a year ago," Ruth explained. "So, you see, she is an heiress
+already. Besides, Mr. Warren would never forsake Maud. He simply adores
+her. I think he went off on that fishing trip with father just to keep
+from seeing Maud carry on. He thinks Aunt Sallie may be able to
+influence her while he is gone. But do look at Miss Sarah Stuart, Bab!"
+
+Miss Sallie swept down the ball-room floor in a handsome black satin and
+jet evening gown, with Mrs. De Lancey Smythe in her wake.
+
+There was the fire of battle in Miss Stuart's eye. On the widow's cheeks
+burned two flaming signals of wrath.
+
+"Maud Warren was left in my care by her father, Mrs. Smythe," declared
+Miss Sallie. "In Mr. Warren's absence I forbid Maud's going about
+unchaperoned with the Count de Sonde."
+
+"Miss Warren is not a child, Miss Stuart," replied Mrs. De Lancey Smythe
+angrily. "If she chooses to go about with the count I hardly see how you
+can prevent it. The Count de Sonde is a noble, trustworthy young man."
+
+"Miss Warren shall not go with him against my wishes," replied Miss
+Stuart quietly, "and I fail to see how the matter can possibly interest
+you."
+
+Mrs. De Lancey Smythe's voice trembled with rage. "You appear to be
+excessively strict with Miss Warren, Miss Stuart," she returned, "yet
+you allow your niece and her friends to associate, every day, with a
+woman who is entirely unknown to you, a woman about whom this entire
+hotel is talking."
+
+"Whom do you mean?" Miss Sallie demanded. She was exceedingly angry.
+
+"Mean?" Mrs. De Lancey Smythe laughed mockingly. "I mean this so called
+Countess Sophia von Stolberg. She is no more a countess than I am. She
+is a fugitive and a swindler. She will be arrested as soon as there is
+sufficient evidence against her."
+
+The "Automobile Girls" had moved up close to Miss Sallie. They waited to
+hear what she would say in regard to the countess.
+
+"I do not believe the countess to be an impostor. She is our friend,"
+replied Miss Stuart. "I think we need have no further conversation. Miss
+Warren will do as I request." Without answering the other woman moved
+away with flashing eyes and set lips, leaving Miss Sallie in triumphant
+possession of the situation.
+
+In a few moments Maud Warren came over to where Miss Sallie and the
+"Automobile Girls" were still standing.
+
+"Maud, won't you come up to our room to-night after the dance?" Ruth
+urged. "We thought it would be jolly to make some fudge in a chafing
+dish."
+
+"Can you cook?" laughed Maud. "How funny! It is awfully good of you to
+ask me to join you, but I have another engagement for this evening."
+
+"Maud," said Miss Sallie firmly, "your father left you in my charge. I
+cannot permit you to keep an engagement with the Count de Sonde."
+
+Maud was speechless with astonishment. No one had ever forbidden her to
+do anything in her life. Her father had always tried persuasion and
+argument. Ruth's eyes twinkled as she saw the effect Miss Sallie's
+firmness had upon Maud. Greatly to her surprise Maud Warren answered
+quite meekly: "Very well, Miss Stuart. I will not see him if you do not
+wish it."
+
+The "Automobile Girls" breathed a sigh of relief. They had feared
+another battle between Miss Sallie and Maud.
+
+"This is jolly!" exclaimed Maud Warren, an hour later. The five girls
+were in Ruth's sitting-room. They were eating delicious squares of warm
+chocolate fudge.
+
+"I am glad you are enjoying yourself," replied Ruth. "We would be glad
+to see you often, but you always seem to be busy."
+
+Maud tried to look unconscious. "It's the count's fault. The poor fellow
+has a dreadful crush on me," she sighed.
+
+"Do you care for him?" asked Barbara bluntly.
+
+Maud simpered. "I really don't know," she replied. "I think the Count de
+Sonde has a beautiful soul. He tells me I have a remarkable mind--such
+sympathy, such understanding!"
+
+Ruth choked over a piece of fudge. The other girls seemed to regard her
+accident as a tremendous joke. Maud was entirely unconscious that she
+had anything to do with their merriment.
+
+"Then you really like the count very much!" exclaimed Mollie, opening
+her pretty blue eyes so wide that Maud was amused.
+
+"You dear little innocent thing!" returned Miss Warren. "Of course I
+think the count a very interesting man. I don't deny he has taken my
+fancy. But as for being in love with him--well, that is another thing."
+
+"Do you really know anything about the count, Maud?" asked Ruth. "Your
+father doesn't approve of him, and don't you think he knows best?"
+
+"Oh, father never approves of any of my friends," complained Maud Warren
+impatiently. "But Mrs. De Lancey Smythe is on my side. She likes the
+count."
+
+"But do you know much about Mrs. De Lancey Smythe?" Ruth went on.
+
+Maud was nettled. "Mrs. De Lancey Smythe is a Virginian, and belongs to
+an old southern family," she returned.
+
+The "Automobile Girls" looked uncomfortable. It was Ruth who finally
+spoke.
+
+"I hope you won't be angry, Maud. It is only because we like you that I
+am going to tell you something you ought to know. Some one told me to
+warn you to be careful."
+
+"Careful about what?" cried Maud, though her flushed face betrayed the
+answer she expected.
+
+"The Count de Sonde," replied Ruth.
+
+"But what have you heard against him?" demanded Maud indignantly.
+
+It was Ruth's turn to flush. What had she heard? If only the countess
+had been a little less vague in her accusations against the count.
+
+"I am afraid I don't know anything very definite to tell you," Ruth
+confessed, in an embarrassed tone. "Yet we have heard rumors about the
+count. Foreign noblemen are often fortune-hunters, you know."
+
+"My dear Ruth, the Count de Sonde is not in need of money," protested
+Maud. "He is very wealthy. Only the other day he showed me a letter from
+his lawyer. It spoke of two hundred thousand francs. It is true the
+letter was written in French. But the count translated it for me. And
+then, of course, I know a little French myself."
+
+"Oh, well," sighed Ruth, "perhaps we have no right to suspect him. But,
+Maud, I beg of you to go slowly. You may be mistaken in the count. Think
+how you would regret it if you were to marry him and find afterwards
+that he had deceived you."
+
+"Marry the count!" Maud's tones expressed great astonishment, then she
+gave a satisfied laugh. "Don't worry about my affairs. The count is a
+real nobleman," she declared.
+
+A knock sounded at the door, and a bellboy handed Ruth a note. It was
+addressed to Miss Warren. Ruth gave it to her. Maud opened it. A
+gratified smile overspread her face, then turning to the "Automobile
+Girls" she said: "Will you please excuse me, girls, I want to go up to
+my room for a little while. I will be back in a few minutes."
+
+The girls ate their fudge in silence for a time. Maud did not return.
+
+"I wonder if Maud is coming back?" remarked Barbara, after a little.
+"Somehow, I am sorry for Maud. It must be dangerous to be so rich and so
+silly at the same time."
+
+"I am afraid Maud is hopeless," Ruth contended. "I don't believe it is
+going to do the slightest good for us to warn her against the count. I
+wonder if we could manage to save her in any other way?"
+
+Miss Sallie came into the room. "Where is Maud Warren?" she demanded
+immediately.
+
+The "Automobile Girls" could only explain Maud had gone to her room.
+
+Miss Sallie rang the bell, and sent a maid to inquire for Maud.
+
+The answer came back a few moments later. "Miss Warren had left the
+hotel for the evening with several friends."
+
+Miss Stuart said nothing. But the "Automobile Girls" knew Miss Sallie
+would never forgive Maud Warren for her disobedience.
+
+The four girls were almost ready to say good night, when another light
+tap sounded at their door.
+
+The girls lowered their voices. Perhaps Maud had lost heart, and had
+returned to them after all.
+
+Barbara went to the door. It was Marian De Lancey Smythe who had
+knocked. She wished to speak with Bab for a moment.
+
+Five minutes later Barbara returned to her friends, looking considerably
+mystified.
+
+"Now, Barbara Thurston, what did Marian Smythe have to say to you?"
+demanded Mollie. "It is not fair, your having secrets with her from the
+rest of us."
+
+"Oh, Marian asked me if we were going to the countess's to dinner
+to-morrow night," Bab replied.
+
+"What a strange question!" exclaimed Grace Carter. "I don't see why she
+should care where we go to dinner."
+
+"Perhaps she had some plan or other on hand herself that she wanted us
+to take part in," suggested Mollie.
+
+Bab was silent.
+
+"By the way," exclaimed Ruth, "did you know I received a letter to-day
+from darling Olive Prescott? She and Jack have arrived in Paris, and
+have set up housekeeping in the dearest little flat in the Rue de
+Varennes. They live on the top floor, and Jack has the front room for
+his studio. Of course Olive declares Jack is the best husband in the
+world. He is painting Olive's portrait for the Paris Salon, and working
+desperately hard so as to have it finished by April. Come, let's go to
+bed."
+
+Just as Barbara was dropping off to sleep Ruth gave her a little shake.
+
+"Tell me Barbara Thurston, what Marian De Lancey Smythe said to you in
+the hall!"
+
+"I told you, child," murmured Bab hesitatingly.
+
+"Honor bright, did you tell us everything, Bab Thurston?"
+
+"No-o-o, not everything," admitted Bab. "This is exactly what Marian
+said: 'Barbara are you going to dine with the countess to-morrow night?'
+'Yes,' I replied. Then she said: 'You had better not go. But if you do
+go, come home early, and don't ask me the reason, why."
+
+"We'll go, sure as fate!" exclaimed Ruth. "No matter what Marian says."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIII
+
+A SURPRISE PARTY
+
+
+It had been a long day of uninterrupted pleasure for the "Automobile
+Girls"--one of those sparkling, brilliant days that seem to belong
+peculiarly to Florida in the early spring.
+
+All morning the girls had cruised around the lake in a launch. Later in
+the day they had bathed in the salt water of the Atlantic. After
+luncheon they had played several sets of tennis; and, later Miss Sallie
+had taken them to the cocoanut grove to drink lemonade and listen to the
+music.
+
+Miss Sallie had not spoken either to Maud Warren or to Mrs. De Lancey
+Smythe since the evening before. The two women had carefully avoided
+Miss Stuart. Once inside the cocoanut grove Bab's sharp eyes soon
+discovered Maud, Mrs. Smythe and Marian seated at a table concealed by
+an enormous cluster of palms. They were deep in conversation. Mrs.
+Smythe was pouring wholesale flattery into Maud's ears to which the
+foolish girl was listening eagerly.
+
+Marian espied Barbara and came over to greet Miss Sallie and the
+"Automobile Girls." She knew nothing of her mother's difficulty with
+Miss Sallie.
+
+"Marian," whispered Bab, as her new friend sat down next to her, "why
+did you wish to know whether we were going to the countess's to dinner
+to-night?"
+
+"Why do you ask?" said Marian, looking a little frightened.
+
+"Why it sounded to me as though you must have a reason for what you
+said," argued Bab. "Were you trying to warn me about anything? Or, is it
+simply that you do not like the countess?"
+
+"I think the countess is very fascinating," was Marian's only reply.
+
+"Won't you even tell me why you told us to come home early if we did
+go?" persisted Barbara.
+
+Marian gave a forced laugh. "Oh, I was only giving you a little good
+advice about sitting up late. But just the same, I'm a very wise person
+and you had better take my advice."
+
+"What are you two girls whispering about?" asked Ruth gayly. "Never have
+secrets from your little friends. It hurts their feelings, dreadfully."
+
+"We aren't having secrets," responded Barbara. "That is not exactly. I'm
+only trying to persuade Marian to tell me something. But she's a regular
+Sphinx."
+
+"Which would you rather be, a Sphinx or a chatterbox?" inquired Marian.
+"And if you would, why would you, and if thus, why, therefore and
+whereupon?"
+
+"Fine!" exclaimed Ruth. "I never dreamed you could reel off nonsense
+like that, Marian."
+
+Marian laughed then rising said, "I suppose I shall have to go back to
+Mama. I only came over for a minute." Her eyes again met Barbara's, and
+she shook her head slightly, then nodding good-bye to the girls she
+crossed over to where her mother was still conversing with Maud.
+
+"Why did she shake her head at you, Bab?"
+
+"She says again that we must come home early from the villa, to-night,
+but she won't tell me why," replied Bab. "She evidently knows something
+that we don't. She was even more mysterious to-day than she was last
+night. Do you think we had better go?"
+
+"Go! Of course we will," cried Ruth. "I don't believe Marian has
+anything very serious on her mind."
+
+"Really, children," interposed Miss Sallie in an annoyed tone, "if you
+begin to conjure up mystery over so simple a matter as a dinner
+invitation I shall feel obliged to keep you all at home. One would think
+I was chaperoning a party of young sleuths, instead of four normal girls
+out for a holiday."
+
+This remark was received with discreet silence, on the part of the four
+girls, and whatever their thoughts on Marian's warning were they sternly
+repressed uttering them aloud during the remainder of the time spent in
+the grove.
+
+                  *       *       *       *       *
+
+At eight o'clock that night Miss Sallie and the "Automobile Girls" were
+seated about the countess's table with only their hostess and her
+chaperon. There were no other guests at dinner.
+
+"How delightful not to be bored by stupid men!" exclaimed the countess,
+smiling at her circle of guests. "And what a charming picture the young
+girls make, Madame de Villiers, do they not? There is not a black coat
+in our midst to mar the effect of our pretty light frocks. Let me see,
+Miss Stuart wears violet, dear Madame, gray. And the 'Automobile Girls'
+might represent the four seasons. Ruth, you may be Spring, in your pale
+green silk frock; little Mollie will have to play Summer in her corn
+colored gown; Bab's scarlet frock makes me think of October; and Grace
+is our Snow Maiden in her white frock."
+
+The countess wore a beautiful gown of white messaline. Her exquisite
+face was radiant with child-like pleasure. During the dinner the room
+rang with her gay laughter. She had never seemed so young, so gracious,
+and so innocent as she appeared to the "Automobile Girls" that night.
+
+At each plate the countess herself had placed a small bunch of freesias,
+whose delicate perfume filled the room.
+
+"They are my favorite flowers," the hostess explained gently, "because
+they remind me of my beloved Italy."
+
+At the close of dinner a bowl of bon-bons was passed around the table.
+There was a good deal of noise and confusion. The girls popped the
+crackers, drew out the mottoes and read them, and decorated themselves
+with the fancy paper caps. They were too absorbed in their own pleasure
+to think, or hear, or see, anything that might have been taking place
+outside the dining-room. Madame de Villiers, a military cap on her gray
+hair, looked as fierce and terrifying as a seasoned warrior.
+
+Dinner over, the countess led the way into her drawing-room, where the
+laughter and gayety continued. Madame de Villiers played brilliantly on
+the piano. The young people danced until they were exhausted. Suddenly
+the young countess caught her train up over her arm, and ran out into
+the centre of the floor. At a nod from her, Madame de Villiers began to
+play the wild, passionate music of the Russian Mazurka. Then the
+countess danced. Again and again she went through the intricate and
+dramatic figures. Her audience was spellbound. No one noted the flight
+of time.
+
+Finally Bab whispered to Ruth: "Don't you think we had better go
+upstairs for our wraps? It is growing late." The two girls slipped
+quietly away without a word.
+
+Ascending the stairs to the countess's sleeping room they gathered their
+arms full of evening coats and scarfs. On a little balcony just outside
+the window of the sleeping room crouched the figure of a man. His keen
+eyes watched Bab and Ruth intently as they made ready to leave the room
+and join their friends downstairs, entirely unconscious of the figure
+hiding so near to them.
+
+On the first landing of the stairs, Bab stopped. Ruth was ahead.
+
+"Go on, Ruth," Barbara called down to her. "I have left my handkerchief
+on the dressing table. I will be with you in a minute."
+
+Bab ran quickly back to the room she had just left. Her soft satin
+slippers made no sound on the floor. It was almost impossible to hear
+her approach.
+
+Bab paused at the half-open door of the bedchamber in horrified
+surprise. Inside the room that she and Ruth had just left a man bent
+over the countess's desk. Her Russian leather writing-case was wide
+open. The man was running through her papers with a practised hand.
+
+Bab could have turned and run downstairs again. The intruder would never
+have heard her. But, although Barbara shook with fear for a moment, she
+placed her wraps softly on the floor and stepped noiselessly back into
+the room. The man was still unaware of her presence. Bab's eyes roved
+about the room in search of a weapon. Her hand resting for an instant on
+the dressing table, came in touch with something metallic and cold. It
+was a silver shoe horn, but Barbara gripped it eagerly, then she
+fastened her gaze upon the intruder. He was an old man with a shock of
+gray hair and a thick beard, that partially concealed the outline of his
+face. His lips were drawn back until his teeth showed and in his bent
+attitude he reminded Bab of a gigantic ape. Under the concentration of
+her gaze the strange apparition looked up and saw her as she stood
+unflinching, watching with alert eyes his slightest movement. Without
+uttering a sound the man began to move slowly toward her, his fierce
+eyes never for a moment leaving her face.
+
+"What are you doing here?" Bab demanded bravely. "You are a thief!"
+
+Instead of running away from him the girl started toward the man. As she
+did so she raised the shoe horn and pointed it at him. Had the light in
+the room not been turned low he must have discovered the trick. As it
+was the faint light, glinting on the polished metal gave it the
+appearance of a revolver. The ape-like figure began backing slowly
+toward the balcony. At the window he paused, as if debating whether he
+dared take the chance of leaping upon her. Bab settled the question for
+him by making a threatening move with the supposed weapon. The thief
+whirled, sprang out on the balcony and dropped to the ground.
+
+Barbara ran to the window. She saw that he had disappeared, then the
+room began to whirl about her. She thought she was going to faint, for
+she felt her strength rapidly leaving her.
+
+With a great effort she threw off the weakness that was overcoming her
+and looked out across the lawn.
+
+During the early part of the evening a large motor boat cruiser, after
+having put her owner ashore at Palm Beach had dropped down and come to
+anchor for the night hard by the boathouse belonging to the villa
+occupied by Countess Sophia. Lights were twinkling from the port holes
+of the boat and her anchor light swayed listlessly at the stern. There
+were no other signs of life aboard the boat on the bow of which one at
+close range might have made out the word "Restless" in raised gold
+letters.
+
+Barbara wondered if their terrible visitor had come from the boat lying
+there quietly on the moonlit waters.
+
+Just then the buzz of excited voices was borne to her ears. She heard
+the Countess Sophia's clear tones, then an excited little scream,
+mingled with the deep voice of Madame de Villiers raised in angry
+expostulation.
+
+Still gripping her shoe horn Bab raced down the stairs, and parted the
+portieres that hung between the drawing room and hall.
+
+What she saw was like the tableau from a melodrama. Crowded close to the
+piano stood the Countess Sophia, while directly in front of her stood
+Madame de Villiers, thoroughly enraged and brandishing her gold-headed
+cane at two men who seemed about to seize the young countess. Clustered
+in a frightened group at one side of the room stood Miss Stuart, Mollie
+and Grace. Ruth was nowhere to be seen.
+
+One of the men made a sudden stealthy move toward the countess.
+
+"Stand back," commanded Madame de Villiers.
+
+Just then Ruth's clear tones were heard outside the villa. "They're in
+that room! Oh, hurry please!"
+
+There was a sound of running feet and into the room darted two young men
+clad in white yachting clothes, and wearing officers' caps.
+
+"We're just in time," called one of the newcomers. "This is something in
+our line of sport. Stand aside, girls. We'll soon have these fellows on
+the run."
+
+With this he grasped one of the men by the collar and dragging him to
+the open hall door, picked him up and threw him off the veranda onto the
+drive where he landed with a thud. A moment later his companion had
+disposed of the other offender in like manner.
+
+"Watch them, Joe," ordered the taller of the two yachtsmen. "If they try
+to enter the house again, call me. I guess we can give them all they're
+looking for. I'm going inside to see if there are any more rascals who
+need attention."
+
+"Oh you brave boys!" exclaimed Madame de Villiers as the young man
+entered the drawing-room where the women were huddled together talking
+excitedly.
+
+"I think the credit belongs to the young woman who had the presence of
+mind to go for help," smiled the youth, bowing to Ruth.
+
+"I had to do something!" exclaimed Ruth. "I saw your boat early in the
+evening, and when those two men came in here and began threatening the
+countess I felt that the only thing to do was to see if some one on the
+yacht would help us."
+
+"Did you see the other man?" asked Barbara anxiously. "He was old and
+white-haired and looked exactly like an ape. He was upstairs on the
+balcony, while I was in the countess's room getting our wraps. Then I
+forgot my handkerchief. When I went back for it he was in the room. I
+frightened him away with a shoe horn. He thought it was a revolver. He
+dropped to the ground from the balcony and ran towards the yacht. I
+thought perhaps he belonged on the boat."
+
+"Not with us," declared the yachtsman. "Allow me to introduce myself. I
+am Captain Tom Halstead and my friend out there on the veranda, is
+Joseph Dawson, engineer of the motor yacht 'Restless' which lies at
+anchor just off the shore. We belong to the 'Motor Boat Club' boys, but
+I doubt if you have ever heard of us before."
+
+Although Tom Halstead and Joe Dawson were strangers to the "Automobile
+Girls" they are well known to the majority of our readers. Born and
+brought up on the Maine coast the ocean was their play ground from early
+boyhood and their fondness for the sea led them to later perfect
+themselves in the handling of motor boats. These two youths with a
+number of other sturdy young men comprised the famous club of young
+yacht skippers and engineers, organized by a Boston broker and headed by
+Halstead as fleet captain, with Dawson as fleet engineer.
+
+The reason for the appearance of the yacht "Restless" at this particular
+place and time is set forth in "The Motor Boat Club in Florida," the
+fifth volume of the "Motor Boat Club Series." That the two young men had
+responded instantly to Ruth's call for help was in itself the best proof
+of the manliness and courage of the "Motor Boat" boys.
+
+The countess who in the meantime had recovered from the first shock of
+the recent disturbance now presented Miss Stuart, Madame de Villiers and
+the "Automobile Girls" to Tom Halstead. A moment later Joe Dawson
+entered the room, and more introductions followed.
+
+"Well, they've gone," declared Dawson. "They picked themselves up very
+slowly and painfully and fairly slunk down the drive. I don't imagine
+they will trouble you again to-night. However we'd better appoint
+ourselves as special watchmen about the grounds until morning. I do not
+wish to seem inquisitive but was the motive of these rascals common
+robbery?"
+
+"The men did not wish money," replied the countess slowly. "They wished
+to steal a certain paper I have in my possession in order to destroy it.
+That is why the old man was searching my writing case. But he did not
+find the paper, for I carry it about my person. Forgive me for being so
+mysterious, and believe that my reason for secrecy is one of grave
+importance."
+
+"There is nothing to forgive, Madam," replied Captain Halstead
+courteously. "We are only too glad to have been of service to you and
+beg that you will continue to accept our services at least until
+to-morrow. Then I would advise you to procure a special officer to
+remain at the villa in case you should be annoyed further by these
+villains."
+
+"Thank you," exclaimed the countess, with evident agitation. "I hardly
+think we shall be troubled again. I do not wish an officer to come
+here."
+
+"We must return to the hotel, Countess," said Miss Stuart. "It is
+growing late and my brother will become uneasy about us."
+
+This time the women were assisted with their cloaks by the "Motor Boat"
+boys and no startling interruption occurred. Ruth ran down the drive a
+little ahead of the party to where her automobile stood. Then she
+uttered a sudden cry of dismay. All four tires had been cut.
+
+"Oh the rascals!" she exclaimed. "How dared they do such a contemptible
+thing? We'll have to go back to the villa and telephone for another car.
+Father will be so worried!"
+
+An indignant babble of feminine voices ensued broken by the deeper tones
+of the two young men as the party turned to go back to the villa.
+
+Just then a familiar sound was borne to their ears. It was the chug!
+chug! of a rapidly approaching automobile. A moment later the car rolled
+up the drive. "It's Father!" Ruth exclaimed. "Oh, I'm so glad."
+
+"What seems to be the trouble, Sallie?" queried Mr. Stuart, springing
+from the car. "It's after midnight. I grew worried when you didn't
+return to the hotel at eleven, so decided I had better come out after
+you. I rather think we exceeded the speed limit too," he laughed,
+turning to the chauffeur.
+
+Then Ruth burst forth with an excited account of the night's adventure.
+Mr. Stuart looked grave. "I shall send you an officer in the morning,
+Countess," he said.
+
+"These are the two young men who came so gallantly to our rescue, Mr.
+Stuart," said the countess, turning to the "Motor Boat" boys who stood
+modestly in the background.
+
+Mr. Stuart shook hands with both young men, thanking them for their
+prompt response to the call for help. "We should be pleased to have you
+dine with us to-morrow evening," he said.
+
+"Thank you," responded the young captain, "but we shall weigh anchor in
+the morning."
+
+After bidding farewell to the two young men and good night to Madame de
+Villiers and the Countess Sophia, the "Automobile Girls" and Miss Sallie
+stepped into the car in which Mr. Stuart had driven to the villa.
+
+"I'll send a man out to put that other car in shape to-morrow," he said
+to Ruth as they sped down the drive. "But, hereafter when this valiant
+band, known as the 'Automobile Girls' pays a visit to the Countess
+Sophia I shall insist upon accompanying them whether or not I am
+invited."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV
+
+THE PLOT THICKENS
+
+
+Maud Warren apologized to Miss Sallie. Mr. Warren had been greatly
+displeased when he heard of his daughter's disobedience, and had
+reprimanded her in such severe terms, that she anxiously endeavored to
+conciliate Miss Stuart at the earliest opportunity. Miss Sallie, however
+received her effusive apology very coldly, and it was some time before
+Maud felt in the least comfortable in her society.
+
+One evening soon after the eventful dinner with the countess, the
+"Automobile Girls" started out for a moonlight stroll accompanied by
+Miss Stuart, Mr. Stuart, Mr. Warren and Maud. Just as they were leaving
+the hotel Marian Smythe appeared on the veranda and was asked to join
+them.
+
+"Where have you been keeping yourself, Marian?" asked Ruth.
+
+Marian flushed.
+
+"I've been very busy," she said hastily. Then as if anxious to change
+the subject: "Have you been to the countess's villa lately?"
+
+"No," replied Ruth quickly. "Not since the dinner there. Have you heard
+anything about her?"
+
+"No," answered Marian shortly, and relapsed into moody silence.
+
+As they strolled leisurely along Barbara who had been walking ahead with
+Miss Stuart, dropped behind with Marian.
+
+"I want to ask you something, Marian," she began.
+
+"Little girls should never ask questions," said Marian lightly, but
+Barbara felt that her apparent unconcern was forced.
+
+"Have you heard about what happened at the villa the night we dined
+there?" persisted Bab.
+
+"I have heard something about it," admitted Marian, in a low voice. "It
+was an attempt to rob the countess, was it not?"
+
+"You could hardly call it robbery," replied Barbara. "The men took
+nothing. But they acted in a very mysterious manner, and there was one
+perfectly hideous old man who was a real burglar for I caught him going
+through the things in the countess's sleeping room, when I went up
+stairs after our wraps. I drove him from the room."
+
+"How did you ever do it, Bab?" asked Marian. There was an expression of
+absolute terror in her eyes.
+
+"You'll laugh when I tell you," replied Bab. "I drove him away with a
+shoe horn."
+
+"A shoe horn?" repeated Marian questioningly. "I don't understand."
+
+"He thought from the way I held it that I had a revolver in my hand,"
+explained Barbara. "You see it was silver and as the light in the room
+was turned low it looked like polished steel. At any rate it answered
+the purpose."
+
+"You are very brave, Bab," said Marian admiringly. "Considering the man
+with whom you had to deal you showed wonderful courage."
+
+"What do you mean, Marian, by 'the man with whom I had to deal'? Who is
+that frightful old man?" asked Barbara, looking searchingly at the other
+girl. "Why did you warn us not to dine with the countess? Did you know
+what was to happen? You must tell me, Marian, for I must know. If the
+countess or any of us is in danger it is your duty to tell me. Can't you
+trust me with your secret, Marian?"
+
+Marian shook her head. Her lip quivered, and her eyes filled with tears.
+
+Barbara waited patiently for her to regain her self-control.
+
+"Bab," she said in a choked voice. "I can't answer your questions. I
+dare not. I am a miserable victim of circumstances, and all I can say is
+that your danger is in being friendly with the countess. She has an
+enemy who will stop at nothing to gain his own end, and he will crush
+you, too, if you stand in his way."
+
+"Tell me, Marian," said Bab eagerly. "Do you know anything about the
+countess?"
+
+"Very little," was the reply, "and that little I may not tell. But this
+I promise you, that no matter what may be the consequences to myself, I
+will warn you in time should any special danger threaten you girls or
+her. That is, if I have the slightest opportunity to do so."
+
+Marian stretched out her hand and Bab clasped it. "Thank you, dear
+Marian," she said. "I know you will keep your word."
+
+After an hour's stroll the party repaired to the hotel veranda, where
+ices and cakes were served to them. Every one, with the exception of
+Maud Warren, was in high good humor. Even Marian emerged from the gloom
+that had enveloped her earlier in the evening, laughing and talking
+merrily with the "Automobile Girls." Maud, however was in a distinctly
+rebellious state of mind. During their walk they had encountered the
+Count de Sonde and Monsieur Duval, and although Mr. Stuart and Mr.
+Warren had exchanged polite civilities with the two Frenchmen, they had
+not invited them to join the party. While Maud, still smarting inwardly
+from her father's recent sharp censure, had not dared to brave Mr.
+Warren's certain anger by doing so. Her only means of retaliation lay in
+sulking, and this she did in the most approved fashion, refusing to take
+part in the conversation, and answering in monosyllables when addressed.
+Ruth and Barbara vainly tried to charm away her sulks by paying her
+special attention, but she merely curled her lip scornfully, and left
+the veranda soon after on plea of headache. Mr. Warren sighed heavily as
+he looked after her retreating figure, but made no comment. Yet his
+friends knew instinctively what was passing in his mind, and the
+"Automobile Girls" solemnly vowed each in her own heart to watch over
+Maud and save her if possible from the schemes of fortune-hunting
+nobility.
+
+"Is there anything more perfect than this Florida moonlight!" asked
+Ruth, during a lull in the conversation, as she leaned back in her chair
+and gazed with half closed eyes at the silvery tropical world before
+her. "Positively, I could sit out here all night!"
+
+"It looks as though we were in a fair way to do so," replied her father,
+glancing at his watch. "Half-past eleven. Time all children were in
+bed."
+
+"Really, Robert, I had no idea it was so late," said Miss Sallie,
+stifling a yawn. "I believe I am sleepy. Come, girls, it is time for us
+to retire."
+
+"Oh, Aunt Sallie!" exclaimed Ruth. "How can you be so cruel?"
+
+"'I must be cruel to be kind,'" quoted Miss Stuart. "If I allow you to
+moon out here until unseasonable hours, you will never get started on
+your picnic to-morrow, at seasonable ones."
+
+"She speaks the truth," said Ruth dramatically, "I will arise and hie me
+to the hay, for come what may, I swear that I will picnic with the rosy
+morn."
+
+"I thought you were going to picnic with us," said Grace flippantly.
+
+"So I am," replied Ruth calmly. "That statement was mere poetical
+license."
+
+"First find your poet," said Bab slyly.
+
+Whereupon there was a chorus of giggles at Ruth's expense, in which she
+good-naturedly joined.
+
+"I'm really more tired than I thought I was," she yawned, a few moments
+later as she sat curled up in a big chair in the room adjoining Miss
+Stuart's which she and Barbara occupied.
+
+"I'm tired and sleepy, too," responded Barbara. "It's almost midnight.
+We'll never get up early to-morrow morning. Oh, dear!" she exclaimed a
+second later, "I've left my pink scarf down on the veranda. It's hanging
+over the back of the chair I sat in. I'll go down this minute and get
+it, before any one has had time to see it or take it away."
+
+Suiting the action to the word Bab hurried out of the room, and along
+the corridor. She did not stop for an elevator but ran lightly down the
+two flights of stairs and out to the veranda. It was but the work of a
+moment to secure her scarf, which hung over the back of the chair, just
+as she had left it. The veranda was deserted except for a group of three
+people who stood at the far end in the shadow. Their backs were toward
+Bab and they were talking earnestly in low voices. Barbara stood
+petrified with astonishment, scarcely able to believe the evidence of
+her own eyes, for the group consisted of Monsieur Duval, Mrs. De Lancey
+Smythe and--enveloped in the pale blue broadcloth cloak Bab had often
+seen her wear was the Countess Sophia.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XV
+
+CAUGHT NAPPING
+
+
+The following morning Barbara awoke with the feeling of one who has
+experienced a disagreeable dream. Was it a trick of her imagination, or
+had she really seen their beautiful young countess deep in conversation
+with Monsieur Duval and Mrs. De Lancey Smythe? True Bab had not seen her
+face, but her height, and carriage--the blue cloak--were unmistakable.
+
+On her return to their room Bab had not mentioned her unpleasant
+discovery to Ruth. She could not bear to voice any actual charge against
+the Countess Sophia. "Perhaps it will all be explained yet," she told
+herself, and with a wisdom far beyond her years, she resolved to be
+silent, at least for the present, about what she had seen.
+
+When the launch which Mr. Stuart had chartered, with its freight of
+picnickers, had put out from shore and headed for the villa, where they
+were to pick up the countess and Madame de Villiers, Barbara had loyally
+decided to let not even the evidence of her own eyes sway her into
+condemning the countess unheard.
+
+On their arrival at the villa they found the countess and Madame de
+Villiers ready and waiting for them, and the sailing party was soon
+comfortably seated in the roomy launch. Madame de Villiers occupied a
+wicker chair opposite Miss Sallie, while the young countess and the
+"Automobile Girls" had stretched a steamer rug over the roof of the
+small cabin, and lay upon it in picturesque attitudes under their
+sunshades.
+
+There was a churning of the propeller, a shrill toot from the whistle,
+and the launch glided out over the water as smoothly as a canoe rides
+down stream.
+
+"We're off!" cried Mr. Stuart joyously.
+
+"I believe you are just a great boy still, Robert," smiled Miss Sallie
+indulgently.
+
+The day's excursion had been arranged by Mr. Stuart. He was an
+enthusiastic fisherman, and on his return from the fishing expedition
+with Mr. Warren he at once began to plan a similar excursion for the
+"Automobile Girls," extending his invitation to the countess and Madame
+de Villiers.
+
+It was an ideal day for a picnic. The sun shone brilliantly down on Palm
+Beach, making it look like an enchanted land. The bathers were out in
+full force. A little farther up the beach countless flower-trimmed hats
+and many-hued parasols made gorgeous blots of color along the white
+sands. Overhead the sky was an intense blue, and the water reflected the
+blueness in its depths.
+
+"You can never understand how happy this makes me," declared the
+countess, bestowing an enchanting smile upon the little company. "Mr.
+Stuart, we thank you for the many pleasures you have given Cousine and
+me. Someday I hope I may be able to do something for you."
+
+"Wait until the picnic is over before you thank me, Countess," replied
+her host. "The fishing may bore you, especially if the fish don't bite."
+
+"Ah, well," laughed the countess, "I could fish patiently all day, under
+a sky like this without complaining, if I were to catch nothing but a
+minnow."
+
+Mr. Stuart's fishing party had made an early start. They were to land
+some miles up the coast, where those who were not of a mind to fish
+could make themselves comfortable on shore.
+
+The journey was not a short one. It was well past eleven o'clock when
+they landed on a hard shell beach, broken here and there by patches of
+marsh grass.
+
+"You are especially privileged to be allowed to set foot on these
+shores," Mr. Stuart assured his guests, as he handed them out of the
+launch. "The location of this place has been kept a secret; otherwise it
+would be overrun with tourists and excursionists."
+
+"Is it so beautiful?" Ruth inquired.
+
+"Wait until you see it!" was Mr. Stuart's reply.
+
+The beach sloped upward so as to form a wall that completely hid the
+land behind it from view.
+
+Ruth and Barbara ran on ahead.
+
+"Oh, Father," cried Ruth excitedly. "This is a surprise!"
+
+The two girls were looking down into a beautiful little dell. It was
+like a tiny oasis, with a sand wall on one side of it, and a mass of
+palmettoes, oak trees and cocoanut palms encircling it on the other
+three sides. The ground was carpeted thickly with violets. Yellow
+jasmine and elder flowers gleamed through the foliage. The branches of
+the oak trees were draped with gray Spanish moss, which made quite a
+sombre background for the gay tropical scene.
+
+"This is to be your drawing-room and dining-room, Madame," declared Mr.
+Stuart, as he helped Madame de Villiers over the sandy hillock. "You may
+do whatever you like here. You may pull the violets, or walk on them.
+There are no park rules."
+
+"Was there ever such a place in the world!" exclaimed Countess Sophia.
+"I shall not leave it until we sail for home. The most wonderful of sea
+trout could not lure me from this enchanting spot."
+
+"We shall stay here, too," agreed Mollie and Grace. "I would rather
+gather violets than catch gold fish," Mollie assured Mr. Stuart.
+
+The wicker chairs were brought from the launch, so that Madame de
+Villiers and Aunt Sallie could be comfortable in their sylvan retreat.
+Ruth and Barbara went off with Mr. Stuart on the quest for fish, while
+the young countess, Mollie and Grace gathered wild flowers and made
+wreaths of the sweet-smelling yellow jasmine.
+
+Grace ran with her crown of wild jasmine and placed it on Miss Sallie's
+soft white hair. The countess placed her wreath on Madame de Villiers's
+head.
+
+  "Oh, happy day, Oh, day so dear!"
+
+sang Countess Sophia as she stuck one of the beautiful yellow flowers
+into her dark hair and danced with Mollie over the sands.
+
+It was a happy day indeed--one that the little party would never forget!
+Mysteries and unanswered questions were banished. Even Bab forgot for
+the time being all disquieting thoughts. The lovely young countess, with
+her eyes full of an appealing tenderness, had driven away all ugly
+suspicion.
+
+Several hours later the fishing party returned.
+
+"See what we've got!" Ruth exclaimed proudly, as she ran up the sand
+hill flourishing a string of speckled sea trout.
+
+"Miss am sho a lucky fisherman," agreed the old colored man in whose
+boat Mr. Stuart and the two girls had been fishing.
+
+"But where are your fish, Barbara?" Grace inquired.
+
+Mr. Stuart laughed. "Bab is the unluckiest fisherman that ever threw out
+a line," he explained. "Shall I tell them, Bab?"
+
+Barbara flushed. "Oh, go ahead," she consented.
+
+"Well," Mr. Stuart continued, "Miss Barbara Thurston caught a tarpon a
+yard long this morning."
+
+"Where is it?" cried the waiting audience.
+
+"Back in the sea, whence it came, and it nearly took Mistress Bab along
+with it," Mr. Stuart answered. "When Barbara caught her tarpon, she
+began reeling in her line as fast as she could. But the tarpon was too
+heavy for it, and the line broke. Then Bab prepared to dive into the
+ocean after her fish."
+
+"I was so excited I forgot I did not have on my bathing suit," Bab
+explained. "I thought, if I could just dive down into the water, I could
+catch my tarpon, and then Mr. Stuart could pull us both back into the
+boat."
+
+"Reckless, Barbara!" cried Miss Stuart. "What will you do next!"
+
+"Don't scold, Aunt Sallie," Ruth begged. "It was too funny, and Father
+and I caught hold of Bab's skirts before she jumped. Then old Jim, the
+colored man, got the fish. So we had a good look at him without Bab's
+drowning herself. But when we found that the catch was a tarpon, and not
+good to eat, Father flung it back in the water."
+
+While Mr. Stuart and the girls were talking, Jim and the engineer from
+the launch built a fire. They were soon at work frying the fish for
+luncheon.
+
+Nobody noticed that a small naphtha launch had been creeping cautiously
+along the coast. It was sheltered from view by the bank of sand. And it
+managed to hide itself in a little inlet about a quarter of a mile away
+from Mr. Stuart's larger boat.
+
+After a hearty luncheon no one had much to say. The "Automobile Girls"
+were unusually silent. Finally they confessed to being dreadfully
+sleepy. There is something in the soft air of Florida that compels
+drowsiness. Miss Sallie and Madame de Villiers nodded in their chairs.
+Mr. Stuart, the countess and the four girls stretched themselves on the
+warm sand. Jim slept under the lea of his small fishing boat, and the
+engineer of the launch went to sleep on the sand not far from the
+water's edge.
+
+For nearly an hour the entire party slumbered. All at once Mr. Stuart
+awoke with a feeling that something had happened. He rubbed his eyes,
+then counted the girls and his guests. Miss Sallie was safe under the
+shadow of her parasol, which had been fixed over her head. Madame de
+Villiers sat nodding in her chair.
+
+The afternoon shadows had begun to lengthen; a fresh breeze was stirring
+the leaves of the palm trees. But, except for the occasional call of a
+mocking bird, not a sound could be heard.
+
+Mr. Stuart waited. Did he not hear a faint noise coming from the
+direction of his launch. "The engineer has probably gone aboard!" Mr.
+Stuart thought.
+
+"It is high time we were leaving for home," said he to himself.
+
+But as he stepped to the edge of the embankment he saw his engineer
+still lying on the ground sleeping soundly.
+
+A small boat like a black speck disappeared around a curve in the shore.
+
+"What on earth does that mean?" cried Mr. Stuart. Leaping over the sandy
+wall he ran toward his engineer. Mr. Stuart shook him gently. The man
+opened his eyes drowsily, yawned then raising himself to a sitting
+position, looked stupidly about.
+
+"A strange boat has just put out from here," said Mr. Stuart quietly.
+"We had better go out to the launch and see if all is well."
+
+The engineer rose to his feet, and still stupid from his heavy sleep,
+followed Mr. Stuart to the dinghy. The sound of voices aroused old Jim
+who clambered to his feet blinking rapidly.
+
+Mr. Stuart and the engineer pushed off toward the launch, each feeling
+that he was about to come upon something irregular. Their premonitions
+proved wholly correct. The engine room of the pretty craft was a total
+wreck. The machinery had been taken apart so deftly, it seemed as though
+an engineer alone could have accomplished it, while the most important
+parts of the engine were missing.
+
+"Whose work is this?" ejaculated Mr. Stuart, clenching his fists in
+impotent rage. Suddenly it dawned upon him what the wrecking of his
+launch meant. He was on an uninhabited shore with seven women, his
+engineer, and colored servant, with no prospect of getting away that
+night.
+
+He felt in his pockets. A pen-knife was his only tool or weapon.
+
+Mr. Stuart rowed back to shore to break the disagreeable news to the
+members of his party. But the sleepers were awake on his return. They
+had seen Mr. Stuart row hurriedly out to the launch with the engineer,
+and surmised instantly that something had happened.
+
+"Oh, dear, oh, dear!" wailed the countess, when Mr. Stuart had explained
+their plight. "Must I always bring ill-luck to you?"
+
+"Nonsense!" expostulated Mr. Stuart. "How could the wrecking of our
+engine have any connection with you, Countess?"
+
+Old Jim who still stood blinking and stretching now began to vaguely
+grasp the situation.
+
+"'Scuse me ladies," he mumbled. "I spects I'se jest been nappin' a
+little. I ain't been 'zactly asleep."
+
+The "Automobile Girls" laughed, in spite of the difficulties which
+confronted them.
+
+"Oh no, you haven't been asleep," Mr. Stuart assured him, "but that nap
+of yours was a close imitation of the real thing."
+
+Jim grinned sheepishly and hung his woolly head. "I 'low nothin' bad
+ain't happened, suh."
+
+"Something bad certainly has happened. In fact about as bad as it well
+could be, Jim," declared Mr. Stuart. "Some wretch has tampered with the
+engine of our launch and left us high and dry on this lonely shore. We
+must do something and that something quickly. It's getting late, and we
+don't want to spend the night here, lovely as the place is. Where's the
+nearest house or village?"
+
+"Lor', suh," exclaimed old Jim. "This am a lonesome spot. There ain't no
+village no wheres round heah!"
+
+"But where is the nearest house, then?" demanded Mr. Stuart.
+
+The darkey scratched his head reflectively.
+
+"Ole Miss Thorne might take you in, Massa. Her place am about two miles
+from here. She's my old missis. I live thar. I jest comes down here and
+helps fishin' parties to land and takes them out in my boat in the
+daytime. Nights I sleeps at my old missis's place. She comes of a fine
+family she do. But she's a little teched in the head, suh."
+
+"All right, Jim; show us the way to the house. But how are we to find a
+horse and wagon? My sister and Madame de Villiers will not care to walk
+that distance."
+
+"I got an old horse and wagon hitched near here, Massa," Jim returned.
+"I come over in it this morning."
+
+Mr. Stuart finally installed Miss Sallie, Madame de Villiers, and the
+young countess in the bottom of Jim's old wagon. He also stored their
+lunch baskets away under the seats. Food might be precious before they
+found their way back to their hotel.
+
+Then Jim started his patient old horse, while Mr. Stuart and the
+"Automobile Girls" followed the wagon which led the way along a narrow
+road through the heart of the jungle.
+
+But before leaving the deserted shore, Mr. Stuart went back to the
+launch. He tacked a note on the outside of the cabin. The note explained
+the accident to their engine. It also stated that Mr. Stuart and his
+party had gone to seek refuge at the home of a Miss Thorne, two miles
+back from the shore.
+
+Mr. Stuart did not believe the wrecker would return to the boat. He had
+accomplished his evil purpose. But Mr. Stuart did hope that another
+launch might visit the coast either that evening or in the early
+morning. Therefore he requested that any one who discovered his letter
+would come to Miss Thorne's home for his party.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI
+
+WELCOME AND UNWELCOME GUESTS
+
+
+The sun was just sinking when Mr. Stuart's weary cavalcade stopped in
+front of a great iron gate. The gate was covered with rust and hung
+loose on its hinges. It opened into a splendid avenue of cypress trees.
+As far as the eye could see on each side of the road, ran overgrown
+hedges of the Rose of Sharon. The bushes were in full bloom and the
+masses of white blossoms gleamed in the gathering shadows like lines of
+new fallen snow.
+
+"How beautiful!" exclaimed the four "Automobile Girls" in chorus.
+
+Mr. Stuart looked anxiously up the lonely avenue as his party stumbled
+along the rough road and peered cautiously into the hedge first on one
+side then on the other. It would have been easy for an army to hide
+itself in the cover of the thicket, which hemmed them in on all sides in
+an impenetrable wall of green.
+
+"I feel extremely uneasy, Robert," declared Miss Sallie, her face pale
+under the stress of the day's experiences.
+
+Old Madame de Villiers smiled and shrugged her shoulders. "I have no
+fear for myself," she said. "My husband is a soldier. I have followed
+him through two great wars. What comes must come. It is all in the day's
+business. But the countess, she is different. She is in my charge;
+nothing must happen to her. I assure you, Mr. Stuart, it is of the
+utmost importance that the Countess Sophia be protected."
+
+Miss Sallie held her head very high. Madame de Villiers was their guest,
+so Miss Stuart would say nothing. But why should Madame de Villiers
+think the safety of the Countess Sophia of more importance than that of
+the four "Automobile Girls?" Miss Sarah Stuart had other ideas. She was
+equally determined that no harm should overtake any one of her charges.
+
+The narrow avenue finally broadened into a lawn overgrown with flowers
+and vines. Back of it stood an old house that had once been a fine
+colonial mansion. The house seemed to frown on the intruders, who had
+come to destroy its sacred quiet.
+
+"I should think anybody might be 'teched' in the head, who lived alone
+in a queer place like this," whispered Ruth to Bab, as the two girls
+stood with their arms about each other, staring ahead of them.
+
+"Will you see Miss Thorne first, Jim, and explain our plight to her?"
+Mr. Stuart asked the old colored man. "Or do you think it would be
+better to have me make matters clear?"
+
+"I'll do the 'splainin', Massa," returned old Jim. "My missis will allus
+listen to me. I done tole you she wasn't jes' like other folks."
+
+"Is your mistress insane, Jim?" inquired Miss Sallie anxiously.
+
+"No-o, ma'am," returned the old man. "Miss Thorne she ain't crazy. She's
+puffectly quiet, suh, and she's all right on every subject 'cept one. I
+hates to tell you what that thing is."
+
+"Out with it, Jim. What is the lady's peculiarity?"
+
+"She imagines, suh, that her fambly is still with her, her own ma and
+pa, and young massa, and her sister Missy Lucy. Missy Rose ain't never
+been married."
+
+"Where is her family, Jim?" Ruth asked.
+
+"They lies yonder in the buryin' ground, Missy," replied the old darkey,
+pointing toward a clearing some distance from the house, where a few
+white stones gleamed in the twilight.
+
+Miss Sallie shuddered. Grace and Mollie huddled close to her, while Ruth
+and Bab gave each other's hands re-assuring pressures.
+
+"Do you look after this Miss Thorne?" Mr. Stuart inquired further.
+
+"Yes, suh; me and my wife Chloe looks after her. Chloe cooks and I works
+about the place when I'se not down to the beach with my boat. But my
+missus ain't so poor. She's got enough to git along with. I jest likes
+to earn a little extra."
+
+By this time Jim had climbed down from his shaky old wagon. He now
+opened the front door.
+
+"Walk right in," he said hospitably, making a low bow. "I'll go find
+Miss Rose."
+
+Mr. Stuart's party entered a wide hall that seemed shrouded in
+impenetrable gloom. On the walls hung rows of family portraits. The
+place was inexpressibly dismal. The "Automobile Girls" kept close to Mr.
+Stuart. In silence they waited for the appearance of the mistress of the
+house.
+
+Two candles flickered in the dark hallway. Out of the gloom emerged an
+old lady, followed by her two servants, who were bearing the lights. She
+was small and very fragile. She wore a gray silk gown of an old
+fashioned cut. Her dress was ornamented with a bertha and cuffs of
+Duchess lace.
+
+The old lady advanced and held out her small hand. "I am pleased to
+offer you shelter," she declared to Mr. Stuart. "Jim has explained your
+predicament to me. We shall be only too happy to have you stay with us
+for the night."
+
+At the word "we," the "Automobile Girls" exchanged frightened glances.
+Their hostess was alone. But that one word "we" explained the situation.
+Did she mean that all the ghosts of her past still waited in the house
+to welcome unexpected visitors?
+
+"It has been many years since we have had guests in our home," continued
+Miss Thorne. "But I think we have rooms enough to accommodate you."
+
+Chloe conducted Miss Sallie, Madame de Villiers, the Countess Sophia and
+the four "Automobile Girls" into a great parlor. The room was furnished
+with old fashioned elegance. Candles burned on the high mantel shelves.
+But the dim lights could not dispel the shadow of desolation that
+pervaded the great room.
+
+A few minutes later Miss Thorne entered the room. "You must tell me your
+names," she inquired sociably. "I wish to run upstairs and tell Mama
+about you. Poor Mama is an invalid or she would come down to see you."
+
+Then calling Chloe to her, she said in a loud whisper:
+
+"Notify Miss Lucy and Master Tom at once. Papa can wait. He is busy in
+the library."
+
+An uncanny silence followed Miss Thorne's speech. Every one of the seven
+women looked unhappy and Mr. Stuart tried vainly to conceal a sense of
+uneasiness. But Chloe quietly beckoned the party from the room.
+
+"I'll jes' show the ladies upstairs," she explained gently and her
+mistress made no objection.
+
+Miss Sallie would on no account sleep alone in such a dismal house. She
+shared a large chamber with Ruth and Bab. The countess asked to spend
+the night with Mollie and Grace, and Madame de Villiers, who was afraid
+of nothing, had a room to herself. Mr. Stuart went up to the third
+floor.
+
+"Let us talk and laugh and try to be cheerful, girls," proposed the
+countess. "This poor old soul is quite harmless, I believe, and she
+seems very sad. Perhaps we may be able to cheer her a little."
+
+"All right, my lovely countess," replied Mollie. "Ghosts or no ghosts,
+we will do our best. But don't count on me for much merriment. I'm a
+dreadful coward." Mollie looked over her shoulder with a shudder.
+
+The countess and Grace laughed, but quickly their laugh died.
+
+The sound of weird music floated up through the dark hall. Their
+hostess, Miss Thorne, was playing the tall harp that stood in the
+parlor.
+
+"Goodness!" cried Miss Sallie, "what will that poor soul do next? I
+should not be in the least surprised if the entire departed family were
+given places at supper to-night." Which was exactly what happened. Four
+empty chairs were left at the table.
+
+"Miss Thorne," said Mr. Stuart, when they were all seated, "could you
+not be persuaded to visit the outer world? It would give my sister and
+me much pleasure if you would spend a few days with us at Palm Beach."
+
+A spark of pleasure lit up the hostess's faded eyes for an instant. Then
+she shook her head sadly.
+
+"You are most kind, sir, but I am much needed at home. Lucy, my sister,
+is quite delicate, you see. And Mama is an invalid."
+
+Miss Sallie touched her brother's foot under the table, as a signal to
+keep away from dangerous topics. But what topic was not dangerous?
+
+"How charmingly you play the harp, Miss Thorne," ventured the countess,
+when they had somewhat recovered themselves.
+
+"Ah," exclaimed the poor woman, smiling archly, "you must praise the
+right person, my dear. It was my sister Lucy who was playing."
+
+Miss Sallie dropped her fork with a loud clatter, while Mollie slipped
+her hand into the countess's and the other three girls linked their feet
+under the table, girl fashion.
+
+Jim, who, in an old black coat, was waiting on the table, smiled grimly
+and mumbled to himself.
+
+"But, young ladies," cried Miss Thorne, "you are not eating."
+
+As a matter of fact the supper was delicious; biscuits as light as snow
+flakes, broiled sea trout, potatoes roasted in their jackets and
+preserves in delicate cut glass bowls. But who could enjoy a banquet
+under such conditions? The two candles seemed to accentuate the
+blackness of the shadows which gathered at the edges of the room. The
+guests tried to laugh and talk, but gradually gloomy silence settled
+upon them. Miss Thorne appeared to have forgotten where she was and Mr.
+Stuart observing the uneasiness of the whole party remarked that as they
+had had a long day it would be well to retire early.
+
+As they were about to rise from the table a sudden exclamation from the
+countess who sat at the lower end of the table caused all eyes to turn
+toward her in startled inquiry. She was staring at the open window in
+fascinated terror, unable for the moment to do anything save point to
+the opening which was swathed in shadows.
+
+"A horrible old man!" she at last managed to articulate. "I saw him
+looking in at us!"
+
+"What old man?" demanded Mr. Stuart.
+
+"He was white haired and looked like a great ape," she gasped.
+
+"Why that's the man whom I drove out of your room the other night,
+Countess," exclaimed Bab. "What can his object be in following you?"
+
+"Come, my man," commanded Mr. Stuart, turning to the engineer who sat
+beside him, "and you too, Jim, we'll search the grounds. I believe that
+this formidable old man can tell us something about the wrecking of the
+engine. Let's get after him at once!"
+
+Old Jim lost no time in procuring lanterns, and a thorough search of the
+grounds was made. The women meantime remained in the dining room, but
+now that the first effects of their fright had worn off, they prepared
+to give their fearsome intruder a warm reception should he again show
+himself. Madame de Villiers moved her chair to one side of the open
+window, her heavy cane in both hands, ready for instant use. While
+Barbara took up her station at the other side grasping firmly the heavy
+silver teapot that had been in the Thorne family for generations. Ruth
+guarded the door at one end, brandishing ferociously a heavy carving
+knife she had appropriated from a set on the old fashioned side-board,
+while Mollie, bravely, held the fort, at the other door with the fork.
+The countess half laughing, half shuddering, clung to a heavy cut glass
+water bottle, while Miss Sallie had prepared to meet the enemy with a
+huge bottle of cayenne pepper, which she had taken from the
+old-fashioned silver castor.
+
+[Illustration: The Countess Pointed Toward the Open Window.]
+
+ "There is nothing like being prepared," said Ruth with a hysterical
+laugh, after ten minutes had passed, and the enemy had not shown
+himself. "I'm going to get a chair and be comfortable." Mollie followed
+suit, and the watchers sat valiantly alert, as the minutes dragged by.
+
+Miss Thorne chattered voluably to and about her family, paying very
+little attention to her strangely-behaved guests, while Chloe, the old
+servant, huddled in one corner, her eyes rolling with fright at every
+sound she heard.
+
+At last the welcome sound of men's voices was heard and Mr. Stuart,
+followed by the engineer and old Jim, entered at Mollie's door.
+
+"What kind of desperado organization is this?" he exclaimed, laughing in
+spite of himself at the ludicrous appearance this feminine vigilant
+committee made.
+
+"It's war to the knife," cried Ruth.
+
+"And the fork, too, I should say," laughed her father, "also the teapot,
+and--what on earth are you cherishing so fondly, Sallie?"
+
+"Cayenne pepper," responded Miss Sallie, "and I consider myself well
+armed, at that."
+
+"I should rather think so," agreed her brother. "However you are all
+safe in laying down your arms, for we have searched diligently, and can
+find no trace of the intruder. He evidently heard the countess and made
+a quick get away. You must pardon us, Madam, for stirring up your quiet
+home in this manner," he said, bowing to Miss Thorne. "I trust we shall
+meet with no further disagreeable adventures."
+
+"You have not disturbed either Lucy or me in the least," declared the
+demented old woman graciously. "As for Papa and Mama they dearly love to
+have visitors." She smiled sweetly and at once began a one-sided
+conversation with her departed parents.
+
+"Do take us away from her," whispered Ruth to her father. "She has been
+addressing the shades of her family ever since you left us, and it's
+getting on our nerves."
+
+"With your kind permission, Miss Thorne, we shall retire," said Mr.
+Stuart, and the seven tired women gladly followed him through the
+shadowy hall and up the wide stairs, to their respective sleeping rooms.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII
+
+THE MIDNIGHT INTRUDER
+
+
+Once in their rooms the drooping spirits of the picnickers revived,
+somewhat. It was a fine night, the air warm and fragrant. The windows of
+the sleeping rooms were wide open and the moonlight streamed across the
+floor, filling the whole place with its soft radiance.
+
+"Oh look!" cried Grace, going over to the open window. "What a darling
+balcony! I believe the other rooms all open out on it too. Good-bye,"
+she called to Mollie and the countess, as she stepped nimbly over the
+sill. "I'm going to make a call."
+
+Grace had hardly disappeared, before the countess went quickly to the
+door, closed it, then came back to Mollie, her finger on her lip.
+Drawing Mollie over to one corner of the room, where they could not be
+observed from the outside, the countess whispered. "Mademoiselle Mollie,
+I believe you love me and trust me, even more than do your friends, and
+because of this I am going to ask you to do me a very great favor."
+
+Mollie's blue eyes looked lovingly up into the dark eyes of the
+countess. So fervent was her feeling of adoration for this fascinating
+stranger that she was prepared to grant any favor that lay within her
+power. "I should dearly love to help you in any way I can," she said
+earnestly. "You make me very, very happy."
+
+The countess kissed her.
+
+"Dear child," she continued, "the thing I am going to ask seems simple
+enough, but some day you will understand how much it means to me. Wait a
+moment," she added almost under her breath. "There is some one whom I
+hold in such dread that, even in this desolate and far-away place, he or
+his confederate might be listening."
+
+She looked about her cautiously, then went to the window and anxiously
+scanned the balcony. It was quite empty. Her eyes searched the long
+avenue leading to the grove that looked like a huge black spot in the
+moonlight. Then she returned to Mollie and said softly, "I am not afraid
+of ghosts, and neither are you, Mollie, I am sure, because there are no
+such things; but this place fills me with foreboding. It is so lonesome,
+so utterly dismal. What was that? I thought I heard a noise below. Did
+you hear anything?"
+
+"Perhaps it was Jim closing up for the night," replied Mollie, pressing
+close to the countess for comfort. "But what was the favor? I will do
+anything for you."
+
+"This is it," answered the countess, her voice again dropping to a
+whisper. "Will you, for a few days, carry a paper for me? It is a very
+dangerous paper, dangerous, that is, because some one else wishes it,
+but it is a very valuable one to me because I may need it, and if you
+will keep it safely hidden until I do need it, you will not only be
+doing me a service but Mademoiselle Warren also."
+
+Mollie looked puzzled. The countess's words were shrouded in mystery.
+
+"Does it concern the Count de Sonde, too?" she asked breathlessly.
+
+"Yes," replied the countess; "it concerns him very intimately. Will you
+do this for me, little Mollie? I know now that the paper is not safe
+either in my house or on me. It would be quite safe with you, however.
+Even my enemy would never think of that, and, if anything should happen
+to me, you may produce the paper at once. Give it to Mr. Stuart. He will
+know what should be done."
+
+The countess took from her dress a square, flat chamois bag which
+fastened with a clasp and evidently contained a document of some sort.
+
+"Fasten it into your dress with this pin," she said, "and keep the pin
+as a memento of our friendship."
+
+And the pin, as Mollie saw later, was no ordinary affair, but a broad
+gold band on which was a beautifully enameled coat of arms.
+
+"Is this another secret session?" cried Ruth's voice gayly from the
+window.
+
+The two conspirators started nervously.
+
+"Come into our room," Ruth continued. "Papa has sent up the luncheon
+hamper. There are still some sandwiches and fruit left; likewise a box
+of candy. We were too frightened to have appetites at supper, but I
+think a little food, now, will cheer us mightily."
+
+"This looks quite like a boarding-school spread," exclaimed Miss Sallie
+as they gathered around the feast. "But it is really a good idea. I feel
+that this little midnight luncheon might help me keep up my courage
+until I get to sleep."
+
+"What a jolly little feast," cried the Countess Sophia. "I am quite
+beginning to take heart again after that fearful ordeal below. I had a
+feeling all the time that the chairs were not really empty."
+
+"Goodness me!" cried Grace, "do change the subject, or we shall be
+afraid to go to bed at all."
+
+"And I move that we take to our couches at once," said Ruth, "while we
+have the courage to do so. Madame de Villiers, are you not afraid to
+sleep alone?"
+
+"Not in the least, my dear. I am not afraid of the most courageous ghost
+that ever walked. I believe I will retire at once. I am very tired."
+
+Taking one of the candles which stood in a row on the mantel, making a
+cheerful illumination, the stately old woman bade them good night, and
+the tapping of her stick resounded through the empty hall.
+
+Soon after Grace, Mollie and the countess stepped through the window,
+and down the balcony to their room.
+
+"You'd better close your shutters," called Grace over her shoulder.
+"We're going to."
+
+"And lose all this glorious moonlight?" asked Ruth. "Never. This balcony
+is too high from the ground for any one to climb up, easily, and
+besides, old Jim is going to be on guard to-night. Aunt Sallie thinks we
+had better try to make ourselves comfortable without doing much
+undressing. Even if we don't sleep very well to-night, we can make up
+for it when we get back to the hotel." With these words Ruth blew out
+the candles and five minutes later, their shoes and outer clothing
+removed, she and Barbara and Miss Sallie were fast asleep.
+
+Grace and Mollie, however, struggled vainly with the heavy wooden
+shutters, but try as they might they could not succeed in closing them
+tightly. After some subdued laughter and many exclamations they
+abandoned their task in disgust, and blowing out their candles prepared
+themselves for sleep.
+
+At midnight Ruth awoke with a start. She had a distinct sensation that
+some one had been looking into her face. But the room was still flooded
+with moonlight, and she could see plainly that, except for her sleeping
+companions, no one was there. She turned over and closed her eyes again,
+but the sudden waking had driven sleep away.
+
+Was that a noise?
+
+Ruth held her breath and listened. There was not a sound except the
+regular breathing of Miss Sallie.
+
+Ruth lay with every nerve strained to catch the lightest footfall. In a
+moment it came again, very faint but still distinct. Something--some
+one--moved somewhere.
+
+She sat up in bed and touched Barbara lightly on the cheek.
+
+Barbara opened her eyes slowly then sat up. Ruth pointed to the next
+room. The two girls listened intently. Again there was the sound, a
+soft, a very soft footfall on a creaking board.
+
+Cautiously the two girls climbed from the bed and crept over to the door
+between the two rooms. On a small bed at the far side of the room lay
+the countess, sleeping soundly. Grace and Mollie also were fast asleep
+in the other bed. Suddenly Ruth gripped Bab's arm. The eyes of both
+girls were riveted on the old fashioned dressing table in one corner of
+the room. Before it stood the same terrible old man that Bab had seen at
+the villa. He was examining minutely every thing on the dresser. Next he
+turned his attention to the girls' walking suits which hung over the
+backs of the chairs. He searched the pockets of the coats, the linings,
+and even the hems of the skirts.
+
+"He is certainly looking for a paper," Barbara thought, as she watched
+him make his systematic search, "and he certainly has something to do
+with the countess's affairs."
+
+Barbara's mind reverted to the group she had seen on the hotel veranda,
+the night before. What was the explanation of it all? Was the countess
+really an impostor and why, when she evidently feared Monsieur Duval and
+ignored Mrs. De Lancey Smythe, did she hold interviews late at night
+with them? She had distinctly refused the "Automobile Girls'"
+invitations to the hotel, yet she had not refused to meet others there.
+And what part could this ferocious looking old man possibly have in the
+drama?
+
+All this passed rapidly through Bab's mind as with her hand clasped
+tightly in Ruth's the two girls watched the intruder with bated breath.
+To Bab there was something strangely familiar about him, his movements
+suggested some one she had seen before, yet she could find no place in
+her memory for him.
+
+Failing to find what he desired, the old man again turned toward the
+countess a look of indescribable menace on his face. He took a step
+toward her then--a sudden burst of weird music floated up from the
+gloomy drawing room. With a smothered exclamation the intruder whirled
+and making for the window swung himself over the ledge. Ruth clutched
+Barbara for support. She was trembling with fear.
+
+"Don't be frightened, dear," soothed Bab bravely. "That isn't ghost
+music. It's only Miss Thorne playing the harp. It's an unearthly hour
+for music, but she couldn't have begun to play at a more opportune
+moment, either. I believe that frightful old man thought it was ghost
+music. Just listen to it. It's enough to give any one the creeps."
+
+The demented old woman played on in a wailing minor key, and presently
+footsteps were heard coming down the hall. By this time Mollie, Grace
+and the countess were wide awake and seeing Bab and Ruth in their room
+demanded to know what had happened. A moment later Madame de Villiers
+and Miss Sallie, both fully dressed, entered the room.
+
+"No more sleep for me to-night," announced Miss Stuart firmly. "I feel
+that the sooner morning comes and we get out of this house the better
+pleased I shall be."
+
+At that instant a melancholy strain like the wail of a lost soul rose
+from down stairs. Then all was silent.
+
+"I begin to believe it is the departed spirit of her sister Lucy that
+executed that last passage," shuddered the countess. "Come, my dears let
+us finish dressing. It will soon be morning and then surely some way
+will be provided for us to go back to Palm Beach."
+
+"Shall we tell her?" whispered Ruth to Bab.
+
+"We'd better," nodded Bab. "Then she will be constantly on her guard."
+
+"Listen, everyone," commanded Ruth. "We are going to tell you something
+but you mustn't feel frightened. We think the countess should know it at
+once. You tell them about it, Bab."
+
+Bab obediently began a recital of what had transpired after she and Ruth
+had been so suddenly wakened. The others listened in consternation to
+her story. The countess who turned very pale while Bab was speaking,
+looked appealingly at Madame de Villiers. The stern old woman was
+apparently much agitated. "He shall not harm the Countess Sophia," she
+muttered, forgetful of those about her. "I will protect her even from
+him."
+
+"Aunt Sallie, shall I call Father?" asked Ruth a few moments later. The
+seven women were seated about the room in silent dejection.
+
+"No, Ruth," responded her aunt. "We will not waken him. A man that can
+sleep through a concert such as we were favored with deserves to be left
+in peace. It is after four o'clock now. I think we'll let him sleep
+until six, at least. Then after breakfast, perhaps, he will be able to
+devise some means by which we may return to the hotel."
+
+It was a very tired and sleepy band of picnickers that gathered around
+the Thorne breakfast table that morning, and breakfast was not over when
+the honk of an automobile horn was heard and a large touring car rolled
+up the avenue.
+
+"Hurrah!" shouted Ruth. "It's Mr. Warren. Oh, but I'm glad to see him."
+
+It was indeed Mr. Warren, who, when the party did not return that night,
+had taken the fastest launch he could find and made for the picnic
+ground. He had discovered the note, as Mr. Stuart had hoped, had
+returned to the hotel where the history of Thorne house and its mistress
+was not unknown and had come for them himself after a few hours sleep.
+
+"I should be happy and honored if you would all come again," said Miss
+Thorne as she waved adieu to her guests from the front piazza, while Jim
+and Chloe bobbed and bowed and chuckled over the generous present they
+had each received from Mr. Stuart.
+
+As the automobile rolled down the avenue they caught a last glimpse of
+the mistress of Thorne House still waving her handkerchief, and in every
+heart was a feeling of tender sympathy for the little old woman whose
+present was so irrevocably linked to the past.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII
+
+THE WATER FETE
+
+
+  "Roll along, roll along,
+    O'er the waters so blue,
+  We're afloat, we're afloat
+    In our birch bark canoe,"
+
+sang Grace's high sweet voice as their boat bobbed gayly up and down
+with the little rippling waves of the lake.
+
+"That is a pretty song, my dear child," exclaimed Miss Sallie Stuart,
+from a cushioned seat in the stern of the boat, "but you should
+substitute 'naphtha launch' for canoe. Nothing would induce me to ride
+in one."
+
+"The Count de Sonde is going to be at the fete in a canoe," observed
+Maud Warren in the tone of one imparting a piece of valuable
+information. "He asked me to go with him, but Papa was unreasonable, as
+usual."
+
+"In a canoe with that little foreigner!" cried Miss Sallie in amazement.
+"Does he know how to paddle?"
+
+"The count is an expert boatman," replied Maud stiffly. She had mixed
+sensations of fear and dislike for Miss Sallie, although fear was the
+stronger sentiment of the two.
+
+"I imagine his swimming and his canoeing are about alike," said Ruth
+aside to Barbara; "just paddling in shallow water."
+
+The "Automobile Girls" were busily engaged in decorating their launch
+for the Venetian Fete, which was to take place that evening. The lake
+dotted with numbers of boats looked like an immense flower bed. Hundreds
+of craft of every land were anchored near the shore, each filled with
+gay parties of young people who were stringing up rows of Japanese
+lanterns, bunting and flags.
+
+"There's not a boat on the lake that can compare with ours," cried
+Mollie proudly, as she tacked the end of a festoon of small banners to
+the awning-pole, while Barbara gave a finishing touch by crossing the
+silk flags of the "Automobile Girls" on the bow.
+
+"If only the lanterns don't catch fire this evening," said Miss Sallie.
+
+"What a pessimist you are, Auntie, dearest!" exclaimed Ruth. "We can
+easily pitch them in the water if they do, and still be very handsome
+with our banners and things."
+
+"Here comes the count," cried Maud, who had ignored the conversation of
+the others and was busily scanning the multitudes of boats in search of
+her admirer.
+
+Her friends politely controlled a desire to laugh when they saw the
+count presently emerge from the boats along the shore in a small canoe
+that was decorated with one lantern hung from a bamboo stick in the bow,
+while the French flag waved triumphantly from the stern. The count, in
+white flannels, was working laboriously with the paddle. His little
+mustache twitched in an agony of exertion and occasionally he paused to
+wipe the perspiration from his brow.
+
+"The count is quite an athlete, isn't he, Maud?" asked Mollie wickedly.
+"I should think he might lead the parade to-night."
+
+But Maud was not listening. Her whole attention was concentrated on the
+canoe, which was making straight for the launch.
+
+"Here I am, Count," she cried, waving her handkerchief to the young
+Frenchman, who, as soon as he espied the boat full of girls, had begun
+to paddle with a grand flourish, at the same time casting melting
+glances in the direction of Maud. But he had not calculated on the
+distance between the canoe and the launch, and a final, fancy stroke
+with the paddle, sent the frail little boat scurrying over the water.
+
+It collided with the larger boat, and in an instant turned turtle,
+dragging the flag of the French ignominiously into the depths while the
+discomfited son of France, clung to the side of his boat, and wildly
+called for help.
+
+At first the girls were speechless with laughter and the last of the De
+Sondes received neither sympathy nor aid. Even Maud joined in the
+merriment, while the enraged nobleman sputtered angrily in French and
+denounced America and everything in it as fit only for pigs.
+
+Presently Barbara wiped the tears from her eyes and threw out a life
+preserver to the unfortunate man.
+
+"There, Count," she called, "you can't sink as long as you hold on to
+that. We'll see if we can't right your boat, and you can paddle back to
+shore."
+
+"I'm sorry we can't offer you the hospitality of our boat," said Miss
+Sallie, "but we are anchored, you see, and the engineer is ashore.
+Besides, I am afraid your wet clothing would spoil our decorations."
+
+The count, however, was too enraged to remember any English. He shook
+his fist at the upturned canoe and poured forth a perfect torrent of
+maledictions against it.
+
+Just then a passing launch paused and gave the needed assistance, taking
+the count on board and towing the canoe to shore. As the little boat was
+righted an envelope that had evidently fallen from the count's pocket,
+floated past them in the current.
+
+"You dropped something," called Barbara, but the launch had already
+started for shore and the count did not hear her. Using the crook of her
+parasol Ruth tried to fish it out. As she drew it to the side of the
+boat it sank out of sight but not before she had read the inscription on
+it, written in an angular foreign-looking handwriting: "To Madame La
+Comtesse Sophia von Stolberg."
+
+Barbara, too, saw it, and so did Mollie, whose face flushed crimson with
+the memory of what her beloved countess had said to her that night on
+the balcony of Thorne House. At that very moment, pinned inside of
+Mollie's white silk blouse, was the dangerous paper which "concerned the
+count very intimately."
+
+Was it about that mysterious document that he was now writing to the
+countess?
+
+For the first time Mollie felt the shadow of a doubt cross her mind. It
+was only a tiny speck of a doubt, but it left its impression, try as she
+would to shake it off.
+
+Ruth and Barbara exchanged glances, but said nothing. They had seen
+enough to know that some sort of correspondence was being secretly
+carried on between the Countess von Stolberg and the Count de Sonde. If
+Maud were to marry the count she would deeply regret it, the Countess
+Sophia had said.
+
+Strangely enough, this speech came back to each of the three girls at
+the same moment.
+
+Ruth felt that perhaps they had rushed too quickly into an intimacy with
+the countess. For the first time Mollie was inclined to be a little
+suspicious. While Barbara who had even more evidence against the
+Countess Sophia tried vainly to fit together the pieces of this most
+mysterious puzzle.
+
+                  *       *       *       *       *
+
+"Well, fair and beautiful ladies, are you quite ready for a sail on the
+Grand Canal? Have you your wraps and bonnets? Is Grace's guitar on
+hand?" called Mr. Stuart that evening, after dinner, rapping on three
+doors one after the other.
+
+"In a minute!" called a chorus of voices from the three rooms, while Mr.
+Stuart put on a look of resigned patience and waited for the girls to
+appear. At length, tired of waiting, he strolled toward the elevator
+when Marian De Lancey Smythe hurried along the corridor.
+
+She averted her face when she saw Mr. Stuart, for Marian had sedulously
+kept out of sight for a number of days, and they had wondered not a
+little at it.
+
+"Why, Miss Marian," called the kind-hearted man, who had always felt an
+interest in the strange young girl, "aren't you going to see the water
+fete to-night?"
+
+"I'm afraid not, Mr. Stuart," she replied, her lips trembling a little,
+partly from loneliness and partly because people were not often kind to
+her. "Mama is going with Mr. Duval and some friends, but I didn't care
+to go with them."
+
+"Very well, Miss Marian; you must go with us, then. Get your wraps and
+meet us on the piazza."
+
+And ten minutes later, her eyes alight with pleasure, Marian made one of
+the party of girls who presently found themselves floating in the long
+procession of illuminated boats on the lake.
+
+All the hotels had emptied themselves upon the lake front, and hundreds
+of boats had already filled and were forming in line for the water. The
+moon would not be up until very late, but the place was aglow with
+Japanese lanterns, which decorated the launches and rowboats and hung in
+festoons along the boat landings.
+
+The girls had hardly got their lanterns lit when there was a burst of
+music, and the procession began to wind its sinuous way about the lake.
+
+"The fireworks will begin in a moment, girls," said Mr. Warren, "and
+then you will be a part of a wonderful spectacle to those on shore."
+
+Certainly the Stuart boat was one of the most picturesque of all the
+craft that floated in the parade. The glow of the lanterns made a soft
+illumination about the four young girls, each of whom wore a long
+broadcloth cape, a final gift from Mr. Stuart before leaving Chicago.
+Barbara's was her favorite dark red, Ruth's was pink, Mollie's her own
+particular blue and Grace's a delicate lavender.
+
+"Daughter," continued Mr. Warren, turning to Maud who in an elaborate
+white silk evening wrap, was leaning languidly back in her seat, "aren't
+you feeling well to-night?"
+
+"Oh, perfectly well, Papa," replied Maud, resting her chin on her hand
+and looking out across the fleet of boats moving slowly along the shore.
+"But spectacles of this sort are so childish and tiresome, I think. They
+do bore me--oh, there's the count," she cried, interrupting herself.
+
+Her father looked so grieved and annoyed that Mr. Stuart's heart was
+filled with compassion for his old friend.
+
+"See what a good time the other girls are having," went on Mr. Warren,
+in a pleading tone. "Look how jolly they are in their bright capes. I
+wish you would get one, daughter. These grown-up things make you look so
+much older than you really are."
+
+He pressed the girl's hand but she drew away with a petulant expression.
+
+"Please don't, Papa. You know how I detest public demonstrations."
+
+"Oh-h-h!" cried the others.
+
+A sky rocket had exploded and thousands of stars hung for an instant
+suspended in mid-air. Then an entire artillery of Roman candles seemed
+to be let loose at once. There was a blare of trumpets, a grand burst of
+music and the gorgeous water pageant was outlined against the sky like
+an illuminated picture.
+
+Other boats began dropping out of line after the music had stopped, and
+Mr. Stuart ordered the engineer to run farther out into the lake where
+the illumination could be seen to better advantage. Grace struck a chord
+on her guitar and began to sing: "'Tis night on Venice waters," when
+Marian, to the surprise of the others, suddenly joined in with a sweet
+contralto voice.
+
+"Why, Marian, I never dreamed you could sing like that," exclaimed Ruth,
+when the song was done.
+
+Marian blushed, but said nothing. She had hardly spoken during the whole
+evening.
+
+The air was full of music that night and the sound of laughter and
+singing floated across the lake from scores of other boats. The strains
+of the "Marseillaise" came to them from a launch that Maud had been
+watching for some time.
+
+"I know whose voice that is," said Barbara. "It's Monsieur Duval's."
+
+"It is, I think," replied Ruth, "although the boat is too far away for
+us to see him plainly."
+
+Marian drew a scarf over her head and crouched down in her seat.
+
+"Could she be afraid of her own mother?" wondered Barbara, for Mrs. De
+Lancey Smythe was easily recognized as one of the occupants of the boat.
+The count, who was playing on a tinkling little mandolin, sat beside
+her. As the boat drew nearer they noticed another figure wrapped in a
+long blue broadcloth cape. It was that of a woman, sitting with her back
+to them. A scarf concealed her head and face.
+
+"Barbara," whispered Ruth, "are we dreaming or is it the Countess
+Sophia?"
+
+Barbara strained her eyes to distinguish the figure. Mollie and Grace
+also had seen the familiar wrap and poor little Mollie's face burned
+with something very like mortification.
+
+The boat skimmed lightly over the water and in a moment only the lantern
+at its bow could be seen swinging in the blackness.
+
+"It looks like the countess," whispered Barbara briefly in reply.
+"Marian," she said, turning to the other girl who had closed her eyes as
+though she wished to shut out the sight of the other boat, "we just saw
+your mother go past with Monsieur Duval and the count, and we
+thought--we were almost certain we recognized the other person in the
+boat. Did you notice who it was?"
+
+Marian opened her eyes and looked straight into Barbara's.
+
+"I am sorry, Barbara," she said sadly, "but I can't answer that question
+to-night."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX
+
+RED DOMINOS
+
+
+The water fete a thing of the past, the Warrens' domino ball became the
+excitement of the hour.
+
+The "Automobile Girls" were talking over their costumes when there came
+a rap on their door.
+
+Grace responded, to find the corridor empty; but at her feet lay a
+sealed envelope addressed to Barbara, who hastily tore it open and read
+aloud the enclosed note.
+
+    "Maud and the Count have planned to elope during the domino
+    ball. At midnight Maud and her chaperon will steal out of the
+    side entrance of the hotel. The chaperon will wear a black
+    domino, but will remain in her room until ten minutes before
+    midnight, when she will go to the veranda, meet Maud, and the
+    two will go to the east entrance of the hotel grounds, where
+    they will be met by the count with an automobile. They will go
+    to the village and be married there. Arrangements have been made
+    and the license secured. Maud will wear a red silk domino and a
+    black mask. Just over her heart will be a small black silk heart
+    the size of the one enclosed. I promised to warn you should
+    anything serious arise, and have done so at great personal risk.
+    Stop the elopement if you can without outside aid. Some day I
+    will explain why.
+
+                                                             "M. S."
+
+"'M. S.' Marian Smythe. She is a good scout, girls," said Ruth. "But I
+didn't think that Maud would go so far as this."
+
+"This pattern for the heart--I imagine that Marian is suggesting that we
+all wear dominos exactly like Maud's. But why?" put in Barbara.
+
+"We'll take that step in the dark, for Father is waiting now to
+telegraph for the silk to make our dominos, and discuss details later."
+
+"I did want a pink domino," sighed Mollie. "But you're right, Ruth; and
+the count will be a dizzy man before we're through with him!"
+
+"Won't the count be suspicious on seeing five Mauds and change his
+plans?" asked Grace.
+
+"He'll not see five Mauds. There will be a big crowd at the ball, and
+four of the Mauds will carefully keep out of one another's way,"
+explained Ruth.
+
+It was after the girls had gone to bed that night that the full answer
+came to Ruth, so she aroused Barbara to tell her of the plan.
+
+"I have it, Bab! We'll switch couples on the count! I'm sorry, but
+you'll have to take the risk, for you're the only one tall enough to
+represent Maud. I'm sure that Mrs. De Lancey Smythe is to be the
+chaperon on the occasion, and if we can persuade Aunt Sallie--and I
+think we can--to take her place, our Count de Sonde will find himself
+with the wrong pair on his hands--and, oh, Bab, shan't we have fun
+seeing the count rage!"
+
+It was a brief statement of the plan, but Barbara understood.
+
+"Maud will not be easy to fool, and what if the count gets the right
+pair?"
+
+"Just before the hour set, one of us will get a note to Mrs. Smythe
+changing the place of meeting. There--at the new place--Maud and her
+chaperon will wait in vain for her count, who will be eloping with the
+wrong couple."
+
+"It leaves many loopholes for failure, but I can think of no better way;
+so I'm for it if your Aunt Sallie consents."
+
+"Monsieur Duval is the unknown X of the problem," stated Ruth slowly,
+"but that's one of the many chances we'll have to take."
+
+At last it was the night of the ball.
+
+"How lovely!"
+
+One of the five red dominos paused on the threshold of the ball room,
+almost breathless with admiration. Glowing lights, exotic decorations,
+swaying, brilliantly clad figures moving to perfect dance music, made
+indeed an entrancing scene.
+
+"Yes, lovely, but lovelier outside. Shall we go into the garden?"
+whispered a voice in the ear of the little red domino.
+
+"Not yet," she responded, and sped away among the dancers.
+
+"Mademoiselle," whispered a voice that made the blood of a second red
+domino tingle, "is it all arranged?"
+
+"Yes," she answered under her breath.
+
+"You won't fail us?" whispered the other.
+
+"No," she replied quietly, but there was a threat in his tone that boded
+evil. Then this red domino slipped away in the crowd.
+
+Meanwhile, a third red domino was peering from behind a screen of palms
+when she felt her arm seized and, turning, encountered the angry little
+mask that had been pursuing red dominos until his brain reeled.
+
+"Mademoiselle," he hissed, "you are cruel! Why do you avoid me so?"
+
+"Ah, Count, can't you wait so short a time?" and the third red domino
+was lost in the crowd.
+
+The fourth red domino had been amusing herself like a wilful butterfly
+on a summer's day. But it was getting late, and she paused at length to
+look about her. As she passed a grotto in the garden, formed by palms
+and orange trees, she heard the low chatter of voices speaking French. A
+vine-covered trellis screened her from view. One of the voices she
+recognized as Monsieur Duval's. She heard him say:
+
+"In three quarters of an hour we shall start. The maid tells me the
+officer is asleep. She saw to that. The young one is on the veranda with
+the older one, and they never retire until after midnight. We must have
+that paper to-night, even though we use violence." The fourth red domino
+did not wait for more.
+
+"I must find Father," she told herself. "How shall I ever get him in
+time? They're talking of the countess, and Monsieur Duval intends to go
+to the villa!"
+
+But what of the fifth red domino, the hostess of the great ball?
+
+Time had hung rather heavily on her hands. No one recognized her, and,
+not being a graceful dancer, she was somewhat neglected.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XX
+
+CONCLUSION
+
+
+At about half-past eleven Barbara concluded that she had better deliver
+the letter to Mrs. De Lancey Smythe. Summoning a bellboy, she went to
+the woman's room. On the way she showed the boy a dollar bill.
+
+"This will be yours," she said, "if you do exactly as I tell you. If,
+when you deliver this note, the recipient should ask who gave it to you,
+say 'some one in a domino,' then come away quickly. Do you understand?"
+
+"Yes, ma'am," replied the boy, his eyes on the dollar bill.
+
+In a few minutes the room was reached. Mrs. De Lancey Smythe, in a black
+silk domino and mask, responded to the knock on the door.
+
+"Now," whispered Barbara, who kept out of sight, and the boy delivered
+the note which read:
+
+"Meet me at the Casino gate. Same time. Have found it necessary to
+change meeting place."
+
+"Who gave you this, boy?"
+
+"Some one in a domino," he replied, turning away.
+
+"Wait! What did the person say?"
+
+"Just 'take this note to room 601 and give it to the lady there.'"
+
+"It's from the count," and, satisfied, she reentered the room.
+
+Meanwhile, Ruth, forgetting Maud Warren, searched frantically for her
+father. In and out of corridors, smoking and supper rooms, ball room,
+verandas, and garden she hurried. The recollection of Maud returned,
+however, when over the hum of talk and laughter the strains of the
+"Marseillaise" floated out.
+
+"In honor of De Sonde," thought Ruth contemptuously.
+
+Some one began to sing, and the place soon rang with the notes of the
+stirring French song. People began throwing confetti, and the air was
+flecked with the bright-colored stuff. It was midnight.
+
+No one noticed two red dominos, each accompanied by one in black, steal
+from different doors of the hotel and disappear in the dark.
+
+Ruth finally found her father standing in a doorway, talking to a little
+red domino.
+
+"Father! I overheard Mr. Duval and some accomplices planning to rob the
+countess of a valuable paper to-night! Do send help at once!"
+
+"Paper! Oh, Mr. Stuart, it must be the one the countess entrusted to
+me," and Mollie pulled from her bosom a chamois bag.
+
+Mr. Stuart took a paper from the bag and glanced through it. Only a few
+minutes later he and four officers were speeding toward the villa of the
+countess.
+
+Meanwhile, Miss Stuart and Barbara had been assisted into an automobile
+waiting at the east entrance. As they neared the station Barbara became
+nervous. Was the chauffeur a confederate of the plotters or had he been
+hired to make the run knowing nothing of the details?
+
+Before the car had come to a full stop the count leaped out and turned
+to help his companions alight. Barbara leaned forward and said sharply
+to the chauffeur:
+
+"Return at once to the hotel without the gentleman. Ask no questions.
+You will be answerable to Mr. Stuart for any treachery."
+
+The car disappeared in the darkness, leaving the count dancing and
+gesticulating in anger.
+
+When Mr. Stuart and the officers entered the drawing room of the
+countess's villa they saw the old man who had before menaced the two
+women standing threateningly in front of them. Behind him was another
+man, evidently ready to respond to any command of the old man.
+
+"The paper you seek is not here, Monsieur," said the countess proudly.
+
+"I say it is here! Give it to me at once!"
+
+"Officers, this is your man! Take him!" shouted Mr. Stuart.
+
+Two of the officers seized and handcuffed the second man, but the old
+man with surprising agility leaped from the room, and the officers could
+find not the slightest trace of him.
+
+"Ah, Mr. Stuart," said the countess, "I do not know what chance brought
+you to my rescue, but help was greatly needed and I am grateful."
+
+"Ruth overheard a talk this evening and sent us here to see if we could
+serve you. The plot was instigated by Monsieur Duval."
+
+"That old man was Monsieur Duval himself. He is a very dangerous enemy
+to have."
+
+"That I already know, Countess. After we learned of your danger, Mollie
+gave me the paper you had put in her care. It was hardly prudent to give
+such a document to a young girl. I think we are entitled to an
+explanation."
+
+"Ah, please not to-night, Monsieur! But may I ask you to bring Miss
+Stuart and the girls here to-morrow afternoon? Then I shall be glad to
+tell you my story."
+
+"Very well," replied Mr. Stuart stiffly, displeased at the countess'
+lack of frankness.
+
+On Mr. Stuart's return to the hotel the girls overwhelmed him with
+questions and called eagerly for a glimpse of the mysterious paper.
+
+Mr. Stuart unfolded the document. It was signed by the Prefect of Police
+of Paris and stamped with the official seal. Two photographs were pasted
+to the sheet and under each was a description of the man.
+
+"The count and Monsieur Duval!" gasped Ruth.
+
+From the paper the girls learned that Duval was a French criminal who
+had served several terms in prison, but who was usually clever enough to
+escape detection. His real name was Jacques Dupin. The "count," whose
+name was Latour, was merely a tool of Dupin's.
+
+"This says," cried Ruth excitedly, scanning the paper, "that Dupin can
+assume any disguise he wishes. He is a linguist and a trained actor and
+is known as Gentilhomme Jacques, or Gentleman Jack. He plays only for
+big stakes."
+
+"How did the countess become involved in this, Mr. Stuart?" asked
+Barbara, and at the question Mollie's pretty face clouded.
+
+"The countess has asked us to the villa to-morrow afternoon to offer an
+explanation," replied Mr. Stuart shortly.
+
+At noon the next day Ruth rushed up to her companions with exciting
+news.
+
+"Girls, the count, or Latour, was arrested this morning when about to
+board a train and has confessed that he had plotted to marry Maud,
+obtain control of her fortune, and then desert her! Duval was the brains
+of the plot. Mrs. Smythe was helping them, and, listen girls, she's been
+arrested as a professional swindler!"
+
+"Oh, poor Marian!" exclaimed Mollie sympathetically, to be echoed by the
+others. But just at that moment Marian came up to them, her face
+radiant.
+
+"Oh, girls, such news! Mrs. Smythe accused me last night of spoiling her
+plans, and in her anger she let out that she's not my mother! My mother,
+who died when I was a baby, was her neighbor. Some money was left me and
+Mrs. Smythe was made my guardian. She used the money, of course, and
+kept the truth from me. My name is Marian Dale. I'm poor, but I'm free
+for the first time in my life, and I'll work!"
+
+Mr. Stuart had come up and heard the last part of the tale; so he now
+broke in:
+
+"You are not friendless, my girl. You must stay here as my guest with my
+other girls for a while, then we'll discuss your future."
+
+"You are kind, Mr. Stuart. But I can't be a burden. I must find work at
+once. But, oh, I'm grateful to you!" and her eyes were misty.
+
+"I must turn my other girls on you, I see."
+
+Maud Warren was a changed girl when she realized the danger her
+headstrong conduct had placed her in. Her father, feeling that a real
+reformation had begun, asked Marian Dale to come to them as Maud's
+companion and encourage her in a saner view of life. This appealed to
+Maud, and the two girls became close friends, much to the happiness of
+both.
+
+That afternoon when the "Automobile Girls" arrived at the countess's
+villa they were introduced to the Baron von Lichtenberg, who, the
+countess told them, bore a message from her father.
+
+To the girls' amazement and fluttered delight, the countess was in
+reality the Princess Sophia Adele von Nichtenstern. The princess wished
+to marry the Count de Sonde; and when her father insisted that she marry
+instead a noble of advanced years for reasons of state, she fled to
+America under the protection of her cousin and second mother, the
+Baroness von Lichtenberg, whom the girls knew as Madame de Villiers.
+
+"But since then, my friends, my father has met the Count de Sonde and he
+has also learned how greatly the man for whom he intended me has
+persecuted me, so he has given his consent to my marriage with the
+count. You can imagine my consternation when I met the false Count de
+Sonde and learned that he was trying to marry your friend Maud. I then
+sent to Paris and learned the identity of these two men. I wish to tell
+you, too, that both Monsieur Duval and my other persecutors have been
+using my maid, and that on several occasions she has taken my clothes
+and impersonated me.
+
+"Mr. Stuart, I did wrong to involve the pretty Mollie in my affairs; but
+my father had not then forgiven me and I feared to have him learn at
+that time of my whereabouts. Will you forgive me?"
+
+The princess was to start for home almost immediately under the
+protection of the Baron and Baroness von Lichtenberg, but before leaving
+Florida she exacted a promise from each of the "Automobile Girls" and
+from Maud Warren as well that they would visit her when she should
+become the wife of the Count de Sonde.
+
+After the princess had left Palm Beach a package was handed to Miss
+Stuart. In it was a gift for each of the Automobile Girls. Mollie
+received a handsome bracelet beautifully ornamented and set with jewels.
+Inside was inscribed "S von N.--F. de S."
+
+"Oh," cried Mollie, "the count gave her this! How she must have loved
+it, and she gave it to me!"
+
+Barbara's gift was a gold filigree star of exquisite workmanship; Ruth's
+a splendid oriental scarf embroidered in gold and silver threads, and
+Grace's a beautiful gold chain.
+
+The "Automobile Girls" spent two more gay and happy weeks at Palm Beach,
+then turned their faces northward once more, each going to her own home.
+
+It was not until the next winter that they were together again, and what
+befell them then is told in the sixth and last volume of "The Automobile
+Girls Series" under the title, "The Automobile Girls at Washington; Or,
+Checkmating the Plots of Foreign Spies."
+
+THE END
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Automobile Girls at Palm Beach, by
+Laura Dent Crane
+
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