"I'm worried about Father," she confessed. "The truth is, he's in danger of losing his position and through no fault of his own."
Penny remained silent and the girl went on with increasing embarrassment.
"I don't know how to say it--you've been so kind to me. But I was wondering--do you think Mr. Nichols might be induced to intercede in behalf of my father?"
"I'll speak to him about it," Penny promised, "but I think perhaps it would be better if your father talked with him personally----"
"Oh, no," Betty said hastily, "he'd never do that! You see, he doesn't know that I have said anything to you. I'm sure he wouldn't like it."
"I see," Penny responded quietly. "I'll talk with Father, but I am afraid it will do no good."
Betty's shoulders slumped, although she tried to smile bravely.
"I shouldn't have made the request. Please forget it."
"No, I mean to talk to Father about it," Penny insisted.
"It's very kind of you. I'd never have mentioned the matter at all only I realize my father will never turn a hand to defend himself against unjust accusations."
The conversation shifted to less personal subjects. As Penny arose to leave a half hour later she spoke casually of Betty's brother and was surprised to notice a strained expression pass over the girl's face.
"You were going to show me his picture the other day when I was here," she reminded Betty.
"Oh, yes, so I was," the other agreed but with out enthusiasm. "Jimmie is very good looking. I guess I told you he was a football player at Waltham High last year."
"Jimmie isn't home very much of the time," Betty returned hastily.
"But at least I can see his picture," Penny said, watching the girl closely.
"Why, yes," Betty stammered, ill at ease. "I'll get it."
She went into an adjoining room and did not return for some minutes. She did not bring the photograph. Avoiding Penny's gaze, she said apologetically:
"I can't seem to find it anywhere. I must have misplaced the photo."
"It doesn't matter," Penny returned politely.
She had guessed instantly that Betty had made no real effort to find the photograph. For some reason the girl no longer wished her to see it.
After chatting for a short while longer, Penny took her leave.
"Now I wonder why Betty was so reluctant to have me see the picture," she reflected as she walked slowly toward the street car line. "I'm more interested in it now than I was before."