Comstock he learned that Edith Carr had made an
opportunity to speak with Elnora alone. He hastened down the road to
meet her, coming back alone, an agitated man. Then search revealed the
notes. His read:
DEAR PHILIP:
I find that I am never going to be able to answer your question of this
afternoon fairly to all of us, when you are with me. So I am going away
a few weeks to think over matters alone. I shall not tell you, or even
mother, where I am going, but I shall be safe, well cared for, and
happy. Please go back home and live among your friends, just as you
always have done, and on or before the first of September, I will write
you where I am, and what I have decided. Please do not blame Edith
Carr for this, and do not avoid her. I hope you will call on her and be
friends. I think she is very sorry, and covets your friendship at least.
Until September, then, as ever,
ELNORA.
Mrs. Comstock's note was much the same. Philip was ill with
disappointment. In the arbour he laid his head on the table, among the
implements of Elnora's loved work, and gulped down dry sobs he could
not restrain. Mrs. Comstock never had liked him so well. Her hand
involuntarily crept toward his dark head, then she drew back. Elnora
would not want her to do anything whatever to influence him.
"What am I going to do to convince Edith Carr that I do not love her,
and Elnora that I am hers?" he demanded.
"I guess you have to figure that out yourself," said Mrs.
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