"Why
was an old maid ever born!"
"She never was," I couldn't help saying, but I might as well not have
said it. Dicky was rapidly formulating his plan of action.
"I'll tell her straight out, after dinner," he concluded, "and her
mother, too, if I get a chance."
"Do you know what will happen?" I asked.
"You never know what will happen," replied Dicky, blushing.
"Mrs. and Miss Portheris and Mr. Mafferton will leave the Hotel Colomba
for parts unknown, by the earliest train to-morrow morning."
"But Mrs. Portheris declares that we're to be a happy family for the
rest of the trip."
"Under the impression that you are disposed of, an impression that
_might_ be allowed to----"
"My heart," said Dicky impulsively, "may be otherwise engaged, but my
alleged mind is yours for ever. Mamie, you have a great head."
"Thanks," I said. "I would certainly tell the truth to Isabel, as a
secret, but----"
"Mamie, we cut our teeth on the same----"
"Horrid of you to refer to it."
"It's such a tremendous favour!"
"It is."
"But since you're in it, you know, already--and it's so very
temporary--and I'll be as good as gold----"
"You'd better!" I exclaimed.
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