I hoped she was taking it in the proper spirit. I had
the terms all ready in which _I_ should accept an apology, if it were
ever offered to me.
[Illustration: Fervent apologies.]
"Now, I must not put off any longer telling you how delighted I am at
your dear Mamie's re-engagement."
The statement reached us all, though it was intended for momma only.
Even Mrs. Portheris's more amiable accents had a quality which
penetrated far, with a suggestion of whiskers. I looked again languidly
at Bellagio, but not until I had observed a rapid glance between my
parents, recommending each other not to be taken by surprise.
"Has she confided in you?" inquired momma.
"No--no. I heard it in a roundabout way. You must be very pleased, dear
Augusta. Such an advantage that they have known each other all their
lives!"
Poppa looked guardedly round at me, but by this time I was asleep in my
camp chair, the air was so balmily cool after our hot rattle to Como.
"How _did_ you hear?" he demanded, coming straight to the point, while
momma struggled after tentative uncertainties.
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