The Womans Way

"Oh, not at all," said Celia.

"Thanks very much. What's that?" she asked, starting, her hand going to

her bosom, her brows coming together nervously.

The sound of voices, not in actual altercation, but something very near

it, came from the hall.

"It's the Marquess and Percy," said Miriam, in a low and frightened

voice. "Oh, I do hope they're not quarrelling. I warned Percy. Hush!

Listen!"

She stole to the door and opened it slightly, and Celia heard the

Marquess say: "I have promised. The money shall be paid; but I warn you, Percy, there

must be an end to this wicked and foolish extravagance. I say there must

be an end to it. I do not want to threaten you, but----"

"Threaten!" came the younger man's voice, which was almost insolent and

rather thick, as if he had been drinking too much wine. "No, I don't

suppose you do. After all, I've got to live. I'm your son----"

"Do not hesitate," said the Marquess. "You would add, my heir. I do not

forget it. But do not count too much on the fact. I say to you, do not

count too much on it. Percy!" His tone changed to a pleading one. "For

Heaven's sake, take heed to what I say. Do not try me too much. There

are reasons----"

His voice broke and ceased; with a glance at Celia and a shrug, Lady

Heyton opened the door widely, and went into the hall.

"I have been making the acquaintance of Miss Grant," Celia heard her

say, with an affectation of casualness. "Are you two going into the

smoking-room; may I come with you? I shall feel so lonely in that big,

solemn drawing-room."

"Miss Grant in there?" said Lord Heyton, with a nod towards the library.

"I should like to make her acquaintance, too."

He took a step towards the door; but Celia closed it and went quickly

into the room beyond; and soon afterwards, when the coast was clear,

went up to her own room.