"
Miss Severence was not attracted; but she was interested. She saw
beyond the ill-fitting frock-coat, and the absurd manner,
thoroughly ill at ease, trying to assume easy, nonchalant man-of-
the-world airs. "I'd never have thought of judging you except on
your own ground," said she, "if you hadn't invited the
comparison."
"You mean, by getting myself up in these clothes and coming here?"
"Yes."
"You're right, young lady," said Craig, clapping her on the arm,
and waving an energetic forefinger almost in her face. "And as
soon as I can decently get away, I'll go. I told Arkwright I had
no business to come here."
Miss Severance colored, drew her arm away, froze. She detested all
forms of familiarity; physical familiarity she abhorred. "You have
known Grant Arkwright long?" she said, icily.
"NOW, what have I done?" demanded Joshua.
She eyed him with a lady's insolent tranquillity. "Nothing,"
replied she. "We are all so glad Grant has come back."
Craig bit his lip and his tawny, weather-beaten skin reddened. He
stared with angry envy at Arkwright, so evidently at ease and at
home in the midst of a group on the other side of the room.
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