She had not gone far, when ahead, whirling towards her, seemed a familiar object.  Could it be?  There were other dark green automobiles—­but it was!—­it was Dr. Dudley!

Polly dashed into the road,—­perilously near the track of the approaching car,—­wildly waving her hands.  It stopped almost at her feet, and then she was in Dr. Dudley’s arms.

For a moment she could only sob out her joy.

“Where have you been, Polly, child?  We were all so worried—­”

“I knew you would be!  I knew it!  But Aunt Jane made me come!  She held me tight and I could n’t get away!  Mr. Bean was going to tell you last night; but she would n’t let him—­she sent him to bed!  And I tried to telephone to you just now, and I had n’t any five cents—­oh, dear!”

“Poor little girl!” and the Doctor’s voice was very tender.

His eyes passed beyond the curly head to the curb, where a knot of men and boys regarded them curiously.

“Where is the telephone, Polly?” he asked.

“Up there, in the little grocery store.”  Her hand showed the direction.

He swung her gently into the auto, stepped in beside her, and steered slowly towards the conspicuous sign.

“I’ll be back in a minute,” he told her and disappeared between the shelves of fruit and vegetables.

Polly’s eyes followed him lovingly.  Presently he was beside her again.

“I wanted to let them know that you are safe,” he smiled.  “Now we will see that Aunt Jane.”

They went up the long stairs, Polly in advance.  Her aunt heard her, and opened the kitchen door.

“Where in the world—­” she began sharply, but stopped at sight of the tall man.

“I did n’t know anybody was with you,” she muttered; and then recognized Dr. Dudley.

“I’ve had quite a hunt for you,” he remarked.  “You have moved recently.”

“Yes,” she assented, “when I was married; this is nearer his ship.  I s’pose you’re after Polly,” she added; “but I’ve made up my mind not to let her stay at the hospital any longer.  I need her at home.”

“You will allow her to come to us for a day,” he smiled, in a tone that admitted of no refusal.

“Ain’t no need of her goin’ back,” she fretted; “I can send for her things.”

“I’ll agree to bring her luggage, when she comes for good,” the Doctor returned pleasantly’ “but we want her for another day or two, at the least.  Polly, run and get ready!  I shall be due at the hospital before long.”

In the little dim bedroom the eager fingers made quick work with the buttons.  This was what Polly had not dared hope for, a day or two more with those she loved!  Presently she was back in her pretty dress and shoes, and was fastening on her hat before the little cracked mirror.  OH, her locket!  She had come near forgetting it.

“Please, Aunt Jane, can I have my locket and chain?” she asked, facing the somewhat disturbed woman.