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 and profitable results in the Metten case, was being extended and adapted to suit the pleasure of Lew.

It did not, to Di's disappointment, draw her to New York. "Art'd be a fool to pay cash fares from Chicago for girls for a party down there," Di admitted. "Broadway's lit for them that bought their own tickets, one way. Besides," considered Di, "I never went big with Lew. Art's had just one criticism of me; I ain't reluctant enough for some. The kick in a kiss to some is the girl's reluctance. Now if you worked for Art and he knew the flowers Lew sent you . . ."

Ellen prepared herself, on several successive days, to speak to Mr. Rountree, yet finally, when she did, she was almost incoherent and he misunderstood her.

"You want to leave my employ?" he asked, regarding, her as though she were deserting a sinking ship.

"I just want to go to your New York office, please," Ellen explained and spoke of never having seen New York and of wishing to work there.

Mr. Rountree never had a thought of relating it with Lew; he merely satisfied himself that she had come to a decision and, after questioning her, he made no objections. "I will transfer you immediately," he agreed.

Di was more inquisitive. "Whose idea?" she catechized. Ellen said it was her own.

"Lew in it?"

"I'm to be in charge, in New York, under Mr. Armiston," Ellen replied; and to this Di countered, "In charge of what?"