I hate to
leave you, but--it calls!"
Mrs. Vanderpool held the dark girl close and began craftily:
"You see, Zora, the more you know the more you can do."
"Yes."
"And if you are determined I will see that you are taught. You must know
settlement-work and reform movements; not simply here but--" she
hesitated--"in England--in France."
"Will it take long?" Zora asked, smoothing the lady's hair.
Mrs. Vanderpool considered. "No--five years is not long; it is all too
short."
"Five years: it is very long; but there is a great deal to learn. Must I
study five years?"
Mrs. Vanderpool threw back her head.
"Zora, I am selfish I know, but five years truly is none too long. Then,
too, Zora, we have work to do in that time."
"What?"
"There is Alwyn's career," and Mrs. Vanderpool looked into Zora's eyes.
The girl did not shrink, but she paused.
"Yes," she said slowly, "we must help him."
"And after he rises--"
"He will marry."
"Whom?"
"The woman he loves," returned Zora, quietly.
"Yes--that is best," sighed Mrs. Vanderpool. "But how shall we help
him?"
"Make him Treasurer of the United States without sacrificing his
manhood or betraying his people."
"I can do that," said Mrs. Vanderpool slowly.
"It will cost something," said Zora.
"I will do it," was the lady's firm assurance.
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