"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."
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.
"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.