Page:The Father Confessor, Stories of Danger and Death.djvu/354

344 "That's it, exactly as I say," said the member in glasses. "The mothers spoil them; it's so easy to give in: and I say it's equally easy to hold out."

"It's the hardest thing in the world," Mrs. Dickson replied as she turned a page of her book. "What I really want to tell you ladies," she continued, "is that I have no time to continue a member of the Club. You see, it was different before I married; but I find, what with baby and with my husband being at home more than formerly, that I really must resign."

"I am sure we shall all regret you very much," the president said. "I am especially sorry when married ladies leave us. They can be of so much help by converting their husbands, and through them, perhaps, other men, to a recognition of our grievances."

"I don't know why women marry," remarked a lady of uncertain age to her neighbour; "it is such a drag on them, it puts an end to all their prospects."

"I don't know, I'm sure," the other said snappishly. "I suppose because they get the chance." She looked her up and down. "That's the old maid that keeps the shop at the corner