“Did you see Sid this evening?” asked Ed.

“I thought I saw him, and then I wasn’t sure.  He wasn’t invited.  Whom do you think he was?”

“I—­well, I wouldn’t be sure, either,” answered Ed evasively.  “I saw so many chaps about his size and build that it was hard to distinguish.  Hastings was splendid, wasn’t he?  I like that fellow.”

“So do I. He’s perfectly square, and measures up all right.  I managed to get the order for the Robinson twins’ auto for him.”

“You did?”

“Yes.  You know, he is going to represent the Whitehall automobile concern from the first of the month, over in New City.  Going to take one of their cars across country, you know.  He was mighty pleased to get the order.  It was Cora’s idea, of course.  She is just full of such ideas—­always thinking of other people.”

“That’s right.  She never does lose a chance to do a fellow a good turn.  I suppose she told you about the ride when she and Paul outdid Sidney Wilcox?”

“No; but Paul did.  Wasn’t that plucky of her?” and Jack beamed with admiration.  “Cora has a lot more courage than have some fellows I know.”

“Indeed she has,” and Ed’s voice was earnest.

The tall clock was chiming two when the young men left the library.  They had so many things in common that they talked like two girls.  Just as they passed the hall door they were startled by a quick step on the veranda.

“Hello!  Who’s that?” asked Jack, hurrying to the portal.

“It’s me—­Paul Hastings,” answered a voice outside, and as Jack swung open the door the young chauffeur, who was still in his costume, entered.  He seemed greatly excited.

“I was afraid you’d be in bed,” he panted, “and I ran until I’m all out of breath.”

“But what’s the matter?” asked Ed.

“Come on in and sit down,” invited Jack.  “We’re not particular whether we go to bed or sit up the rest of the night.  Come and join us.  But has anything happened?”

“No; I—­I can’t stay,” and Paul leaned against the doorway.  “But I found this in my coat pocket—­it’s a diamond ring.  I was nearly home when I discovered it.  I thought some of the girls or ladies might be frantic over the loss, so I hurried back with it.”

He handed over the sparkling object.

“Whew!  That’s a beauty!” exclaimed Jack.  “A new one, too!  Look, Ed!  If that isn’t an engagement ring I’ll eat my war club!  Now, what young lady, do you suppose, could have used our grounds, our hospitality and eaten of our swell supper with the malicious aforethought of becoming pledged to unite herself in the holy bonds of matrimony?  Who could have done it?  And then to lose the guarantee that goes with it!  It’s past belief!”

“It certainly is new,” said Ed, critically examining the ring with its sparkling stone.  “About a carat and a half, I should say.  Never cost less than three hundred dollars.  Whoever bought it must have plenty of cash.  But how on earth did it get into your pocket, Paul?”