Severence. I'm just going. I merely looked in
to--to congratulate Rita."
Madam Bowker clutched her staff. "To congratulate my
granddaughter? Upon what, pray?"
Arkwright simulated a look of surprise. "Upon her engagement."
"Her WHAT?" demanded the old lady, while Roxana sat holding a lump
of sugar suspended between bowl and cup.
"Her engagement to Josh Craig."
"No such thing!" declared the old lady instantly. "Really, sir, it
is disgraceful that MY granddaughter's name should be associated
in ANY connection with such a person."
Here Margaret entered the room by the French windows by which she
had left. She advanced slowly and gracefully, amid a profound
silence. Just as she reached the tea-table her grandmother said in
a terrible voice: "Margaret!"
"Yes, Grandmother," responded Margaret smoothly, without looking
at her.
"Mr. Arkwright here has brought in a scandalous story about your
being engaged to that--that Josh person--the clerk in one of the
departments. Do you know him?"
"Yes, Grandma. But not very well."
Madam Bowker glanced triumphantly at Arkwright; he was gazing
amazedly at Margaret.
"You see, Grant," said Roxana, with her foolish, pleasant laugh,
"there is nothing in it.
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