Page:The Tattooed Countess (1924).pdf/182

 he rather young? I'm afraid people will talk.

Let them. I can't help it. I want to see him. He interests me. Surely nobody can talk merely because he calls. . ..

No, I suppose not, Lou replied, doubtfully, as she returned to her scansion of the newspaper.

What are you doing today, Lou? the Countess queried after a pause. I want to do every blessed thing you do today.

Why, usually. . . Lou sufficiently exhibited her astonishment.

I know. Usually, I go up to my room after breakfast to read Marcel Prevost or Anthony Hope or Edward Bellamy, but today I want to do everything you do!

This morning I'm going marketing. ..

I'm going with you!

And then to Babcock's for some denim. You know we are meeting the ladies at Mayme Townsend's this afternoon to sew for the Orphan's Home.

I'll go and sew. I'll make millions of garments for orphans!

A little later, the Countess returned from a trip to her room with a round straw toque, trimmed with violets, black feathers, and green ribbons, on her head.

I'm ready, she announced. Have you called William?

I thought we'd walk, Lou apologized. You know this is the day William mows the lawn.