Page:Anthony Hope - The Dolly Dialogues.djvu/132

 Dolly's eye rested upon her with an interested expression. I knew that she was about to ask Mrs. Wiggins whether she liked the condition of life, and I interposed hastily, with a sigh,—

'But you can look back on a happy marriage, Mrs. Wiggins?'

'I did my best to make it so,' said she stiffly.

'You're right,' said I. 'Even in the face of unkindness we should strive'

'My husband's not unkind,' said Dolly.

'I didn't mean your husband,' said I.

'What your poor wife would do if she cared a button for you, I don't know,' observed Dolly.

'If I had a wife who cared for me, I should be a better man,' said I solemnly.

'But you'd probably be very dull,' said Dolly. 'And you wouldn't be allowed to drive with me.'

'Perhaps it's all for the best,' said I, brightening up. 'Good-bye, Mrs. Wiggins.'

Dolly walked on. Mrs. Wiggins held my hand for a moment.

'Young man,' said she sternly, 'are you sure it's not your own fault?'

'I'm not at all sure, Mrs. Wiggins,' said I. 'But don't be distressed about it. It's of no consequence. I don't let it make me unhappy. Good-bye; so many thanks. Charming girls you have here—especially that one in the fifth—I mean, charming, all of them. Good-bye.'

I hastened to the carriage. Mrs. Wiggins stood and watched. I got in and sat down by Dolly.

'Oh, Mrs. Wiggins,' said Dolly, dimpling,