Page:Firecrackers a realistic novel.pdf/41

 Consuelo, you know mama has told you not to read too much. Laura flushed. Fortunately, for the child's taste, she explained, her father buys only the best books.

Consuelo did not appear to be particularly aware of this inconsiderate interruption. You were asking me, Mrs. Lorillard, she remarked, what I had been reading. It would take me an hour to make out the catalogue. I'd better limit myself to telling you what I like best of the books I have read recently.

Do, Campaspe urged.

Well, first, I think, the Memoirs of William Hickey, and after that, Antic Hay. ..

Laura settled back in her chair more comfortably. I am relieved, she said, to learn that you are reading memoirs, Consuelo dear. They are always so solid. Don't you think it wonderful, Campaspe, Consuelo reading memoirs at her age? Now, you and I. ..

I do, indeed, Campaspe responded. Then, turning again to the child, What do you think of the period, Consuelo?

Well, Hickey was all right and I liked the parties, and it was enjoyable and old-fashioned and homey. I think life has changed a great deal since the eighteenth century. We seem to drink more now, at least in America. And do you believe, Mrs. Lorillard, that a play like Fata Morgana would have been possible then? A splendid, cynical play,