plied, were plentiful, readily to be chartered. A timetable supplied all other needful advice, and Alan wrote his message swiftly.
Addressed to Digby in New York, it required that gentleman to arrange for a motor-car to wait on the waterfront of New Bedford from 3:00 a. m. till called for in the name of Mr. Law, as well as for a special train at Providence, similarly instructed.
With hope like new life animating him, Alan hurried forth from the station, heedless of the interest in him betrayed by two village loafers, trotted up the street, ordered supper for three at the village hotel, and set off again down the beach.
But now, all unconscious of the fact, he went no more alone.
He found his sweetheart and his friend much as he had left them—with this difference, that Barcus now lay flat on his back and was snoring lustily. He was roused only with the greatest difficulty, and awoke grumbling.
He was placated quickly enough, however, by Alan's information.
But when it was the turn of Rose, both faltered. None the less, it must be done; Alan hardened his heart with the reminder of their urgent necessity, and eventually brought her to with the aid of a few drops of some brandy which he had purchased at the village.
