Page:O Genteel Lady! (1926).pdf/82

 'And you're not doing anything to help her? Really, Fox, you would sell not only your own soul, but that of my young cousin as well. Can't you point out to her the cheapness of the "Hearth and Home" literature? She has so much ability.'

'Oh, if she has any talent she'll see through herself pretty soon.' Mr. Fox remarked airily. 'But if she didn't write these things, what would she write about? She isn't very experienced in life. I'll admit the work she did on your witchcraft book is brilliant, quite free from all the trite elegancies of Miss Bigley's popular style.'

The great 'Historical Study of Salem Witchcraft' was published at last, and Lanice was almost moved to tears as she read Chapter Three, which was entirely the result of her studies and skill. Mr. Fox found her so engaged, noticed the chapter number, and slyly asked if she were reading her favorite author.

'I have always known that you wrote that chapter, and of course every one is one's own favorite author. It is well up to the standards of the "Journal. Catching sight of Miss Bigley's bulk moving behind the packing-boxes he said, 'Miss Bigley, what if I take your "Hearth and Home" author-artist and shape her up for my "Journal"?'

Miss Bigley appeared, her dirty hands pushing her bonnet straight. 'Of course, if you feel the need, but personally I feel that the scope of "Hearth and Home" Is much more appropriate to a young lady than the deeper waters and further shores of the