“We are particularly interested in acquiring accurate knowledge on this subject, because Miss Gordon hopes to establish a similar institution near her home in the South; where so many of our countrywomen, rendered destitute in consequence of the late war, need training which will enable them to do faithful remunerative work, without compromising their feminine refinement.  While in Europe she inspected various industrial organizations; saw Kaiserswerth, and the Training Schools for Nurses, even the Swedish ‘Naas Slojd’, and her visit here is solely to verify the flattering accounts she has received of the success of the eclectic system of the ‘Anchorage’.  The South is so rich in fine materials that appear to offer a premium for carving, that we wish to investigate this branch of ‘decorative’ labor, and hope you can help us by some practical suggestions.”

“Within the past twelve months, we have commenced the experiment of wood work; make all the utensils we need, and one of our patrons secured for us some models from the school you mentioned near Gothenburg.  As yet we have received only two orders; one for a base in walnut for a baptismal font; the other an oak triptych frame for a choir in a Minnesota church.  The carving is a distinct branch, that does not belong to my department; but if you will knock at the arched door on the right hand side of the hall, Sister Katrina, who has charge of that work, will take pleasure in exhibiting the process.  Mr. Kendall knows the ‘Anchorage’ so well, he needs no guide to the work-rooms.  Permit me to offer you some copies of our new prospectus, and also a photograph of this building, as a slight souvenir of your visit here.”

She fitted papers and picture into a square envelope stamped with an anchor in red ink, and handing it to Miss Gordon, walked to the door and opened it.  On the threshold Leo turned, and looked intently into her face: 

“Are you sufficiently at leisure to allow me a little further conversation this afternoon; or shall I call again?”

“I am entirely at your service, and shall gladly furnish any information you may desire.  Our matron has placed my time at your disposal.”

“Mr. Kendall, if you will kindly accompany the Bishop to the wood-carving room, I can remain here a little while, to ask Sister some questions, which would scarcely interest you gentlemen.  I will join you there, very soon.  Leighton, please get an estimate of the cost of the necessary outfit, and talk with Mr. Kendall concerning the feasibility of sending one of our women here for a year.”

Closing the door, Beryl put out both hands, and took Leo’s.  She stood a moment, holding them in a tight clasp.

“Thank you, for considerately withholding a recognition that would have embarrassed me.  I hoped that the habit of our Order would in some degree disguise me, yet, at a glance you knew me.”

“Shall I infer that your history is unknown here?”