But she was not without a friend in the hour of her need.
"I have heard of Florette's sickness, and I have come to help you."
"But do you know the danger?" asked the poor mother. "Do you know that her disease is contagious, and that you run the risk of taking it?"
"I know all, but life is not very precious to me. I love your little daughter, and I am willing to risk my life for her."
Mrs. Graham made no further opposition. In truth, she was glad and encouraged to find a friend who was willing to help her--more especially one whom the little girl loved nearly as much as herself.
So these two faithful women watched by day and by night at the bedside of little Florette, relieving each other when nature's demand for rest became imperative, and the result was that Florette was saved. The crisis was safely past, and neither contracted the disease.
When Florette was well enough, Mrs. Graham prepared to set out for her Northern home.
"How lonely I shall feel without you," exclaimed Mrs. Conrad, with a sigh.
"Then come with us," said Mrs. Graham. "Florette loves you, and after what has passed I look upon you as a sister. I have a pleasant home in Chicago, and wish you to share it."
"But I am a stranger to you, Mrs. Graham. How do you know that I am worthy?"
"The woman who has nursed my child back from death is worthy of all honor in my household."
"He knows of you through me, and we both invite you."
Mrs. Conrad made no further opposition. She had found friends. Now she had something to live for.
By a strange coincidence, she and Oliver reached Chicago the same day.
In due time, Nicholas Bundy and Oliver arrived at Chicago. They took up their residence at a small hotel, and Mr. Bundy prepared to search for some trace of Rupert Jones. He couldn't find the name in the directory, but after diligent search ascertained that such a man had been in business in Chicago ten years before. Where he went or what became of him could not immediately be learned. Time was required, and it became necessary to prolong their stay in the city.
Mr. Bundy did not care to make acquaintances. With Oliver he was not lonely. But one evening, while sitting in the public room, a stranger entered into conversation with him.