Page:O Genteel Lady! (1926).pdf/42

 wrists. It was one thing to hate Mamma herself, and another for Augustus to sneer. 'Is it ridiculous to prefer the wonders of the Old World to—Amherst?'

'It is ridiculous to prefer the company of a scatterbrained boy to one's lawful spouse.'

'Ugh.'

'Why do you say "ugh" Lanice?'

'I do not like the word "spouse.

Spouse?" It is one of the most hallowed words in the English language. Its associations...but to leave philology and return to ourselves. I have come to tell you that, in spite of what I once said, in my eyes you are as untainted as before your mother's fall. I spoke hastily, I fear. I suggested that the mischievous wantonness of your parent...Lanice...' The young man, for he was young in spite of his impeccable dignity, faltered slightly. 'There are certain barriers with which womanly modesties and delicacies guard themselves. I never have known you, even in moments of enthusiasm over our approaching nuptials, to transgress one of these barriers. I have never seen in you a suggestion of gross passion. Because I believe entirely in your own purity, I am willing to overlook your mother, and once again offer you my hand.' His forehead was dank with sweat. His earnest, grasping eyes stuck out from under the piggish-white lashes.

'Mr. Trainer, you do me honor, but I can see now that I have never really loved you.'

'How many a pure woman has said that! It is only