Yet even from her prison-cell she might
hold over him _in terrorem_ the threat of making known to Ida's
mother the secret of her child's existence. All was not lost. She
walked quietly to the carriage in waiting, while her companions, in
an ecstasy of terror, seemed to have lost the power of locomotion,
and had to be supported on either side.
CHAPTER XXIV.
"THE FLOWER-GIRL."
"BY gracious, if that isn't Ida!" exclaimed Jack, in profound
surprise.
He had been sauntering along Chestnut Street, listlessly, troubled
by the thought that though he had given Mrs. Hardwick into custody,
he was apparently no nearer the discovery of his foster-sister than
before. What steps should he take to find her? He could not decide.
In his perplexity he came suddenly upon the print of the
"Flower-Girl."
"Yes," said he, "that is Ida, plain enough. Perhaps they will know
in the store where she is to be found."
He at once entered the store.
"Can you tell me anything about the girl that picture was taken
for?" he asked, abruptly of the nearest clerk.
The clerk smiled.
"It is a fancy picture," he said. "I think it would take you a long
time to find the original."
"It has taken a long time," said Jack. "But you are mistaken. It is
the picture of my sister."
"Of your sister!" repeated the clerk, with surprise, half
incredulous.
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