{{betlep242.png}} The countess, listening, had not much relished having Lucia called the "Italian signorina," however flatteringly, as Lucia herself had noted by her mother's expression. Oh, yes, Countess Coletti was making an American out of her daughter -- _perhaps,_ Lucia thought. But the countess had an idea. "Rose," she said, "how would you like to bring your mother here and help me for a while? You would be safe, I think, and espe- cially if we arrange for another of your names to be used. I suppose you have a string of them, like most of the noble families in the old world." "Yes. That has been our mistake -- but we wanted Ramon to be able to find us if he were still alive." "Poor child!" cried the countess. "There are those rooms on the third floor since Grand- mother Ferris has gone. They are in a wing, by themselves. I will speak to my brother about it. The nurse and maid who took care of Madam Ferris both wanted to leave. There is much to be done, with her private possessions all to be looked over; and some way I can not bear to do it, or let careless people do it. I could use you in many ways, Rose and we would pay you well. Will you come?" "Can you mean that?" Rose Sevilla was eag- [[242]]