Beyond the Rocks

A surprise awaited Theodora on Saturday morning. A friendly note from

Mrs. McBride arrived, asking her if she would spend the day with her at

Versailles, as she had asked her husband to do her a favor and lunch

with Mr. Clutterbuck R. Tubbs.

Theodora awaited Josiah's presence at the premier déjeuner, which they

took in their salon, with absolute excitement. He came in, a pompous

smile on his face.

"Good-day, my love," he said, blandly. "That charming widow writes me

this morning, asking if I will do her a favor, and take her friend, Mr.

Clutterbuck Tubbs, to examine that machinery for the separation of fats

we both have an interest in, and he suggests I should lunch with him, as

he is very anxious to have my opinion upon the merits of it."

"Yes," said Theodora.

"She also says," referring to the letter in his hand, "she will take

charge of you for the day, and take you to Versailles, which I know you

wish to go to. She wants an answer at once, as she will call for you at

twelve o'clock if we accept."

"I have heard from her, too," said Theodora. "What shall you answer,

Josiah?" and she looked out of the window.

"Oh, I may as well go, I think. There is money in the invention, or that

old gimlet-eye would not be so keen about it; I talked the matter over

with him at Armenonville the other night."

"Then shall you write or shall I?" said Theodora, as evenly as she

could. "Her servant is waiting."