105 
out success. Then I decided that I would de- 
vote my life to soothing the wretchedness of 
other poor unfortunates so | became a trained 
nurse. I was recommended to the Cliffside 
Sanitarium and I readily accepted a position 
here when I saw its charming location. Six 
long years have passed since I was forcibly 
separated from my dear papa and I am yet 
ignorant of what his fate may be.” 
“T thank you sincerely for your confidence 
Yours is indeed a sad story. I pledge you my 
honor to do all in my power to learn assuredly 
what has become of your sadly bereaved parent. 
Now have you any little trinket that you will 
trust in my care and that I may use as a posi- 
tive proof of your identity?” 
“Oh, yes. I have here a small locket that I 
always carry with me. It contains the picture 
of my mother. Papa has one like it. I will 
gladly entrust it to your care as it is a positive 
proof of my identity. Papa had two made af- 
ter mamma died, ard he told me never to part 
with this one, but as proof of my perfect confi- 
dence in you I place it in your keeping. Now 
I must return to the house. You will surely 
see me again within a short time. I feel inde- 
scribably happy and hopeful.” 
“Ah, my child, do not foster too bright 
hopes, only to be sadly blighted. I will do all 
in my power; but it is no small matter to un- 
ravel the mysteries of six long years.” 
“T know it, I know it; yet I cannot but feel 
