"It does seem an abnormal state of affairs; I've barely given it a

thought, it has always been such a pleasure to find you, after a hard

day's work, looking invariably dainty, and pretty, and eloquently

suggestive of leisure and repose. But--to the student of history--I

suppose it is a condition that cannot last. There must be some sort of

upheaval due. Well, I hope it will give me more of your society."

They smiled at each other across the little table in perfect confidence.

They were lunching in the court, and after she had blown him a kiss over

her glass of red wine, her eyes happened to travel in the direction of

the large dining-room. She gave a little exclamation of distaste.

"There is maman lunching with that hateful old Mr. Lawton. He was in her

sitting-room when I ran in to call on her yesterday, and nearly snapped

my head off when I asked him if he wouldn't buy my electric for Aileen.

He said it was time she began to learn a few economies instead of more

extravagances. Poor darling Aileen. She has to stay in town, too, for he

won't open the house in Atherton until he is ready to go down himself

every night."

"Is he an old friend of your mother's?"

"She and Papa met him when they were here, and Mrs. Lawton was very kind

when I was born. It's too bad Mrs. Lawton's dead. She'd be a nice friend

for maman."

"Perhaps your mother is asking Mr. Lawton's advice about the investment

of money."

He had been observing his wife closely, but it was more and more apparent

that if Mr. Lawton held the key to her mother's past she had not been

informed of the fact. She answered indifferently: "Possibly. One can get much higher interest out here than in France, and

maman would never invest money without the best advice. She loves me, but

money next. Oh, la! la!"

"Has she said anything more about going back to Rouen?"

"I didn't have a word with her alone yesterday, but I'll ask her to-day.

Poor maman! I fancy the novelty has worn off here, and she would really

be happier with her own people and customs. She hates traveling, like all

the French; but don't you think that, after a bit we shall be able to go

over to Europe at least once a year?"

"I am sure of it. And while I am attending to business in London you

could visit your mother in Rouen. Tell her that one way or another I'll

manage it."




readonlinefreebook.com Copyright 2016 - 2024