Page:Bambi (1914).djvu/121

Rh “Come right in,” she invited.

Bambi wanted to run. Her breath came in little, short gasps. She wished she could take hold of the other girl’s hand and hold on tight. A door stood open into an outside office, and several clerks stared at her. The sanctum door was open.

“Mr. Strong, this is Mrs. Jocelyn,” said her guide, and the door closed behind her. A tall, pleasant-faced young man rose and tried to cover his surprise.

“How do you do?” he said cordially, with outstretched hand.

Bambi laid hers in it.

“I’m frightened to death,” she answered.

“Frightened—of me?”

“Well, not you, exactly, but editorism.” He laughed.

“I can match amazement with your terror, then. You are a surprise.”

“You are disappointed in me,” she said quickly.

“I expected a—a—well, a bigger woman, and older.”

“I see. You didn’t expect a half portion?”

“Exactly,” he smiled. “Well, we were extremely interested in your story.”

“I am so glad.”