Page:To-morrow Morning (1927).pdf/40

 times prettier than those horrid old chrysanthemums. But I did feel so sick

"Is this your first Westlake winter, Mrs. Green?"

"Yes, my very first."

"You'll find our climate rather severe, I'm afraid."

"Yes, I expect I'll feel as if I were making a dahsh for the North Pole every time I go out."

"Dahsh!" She could have burst into tears again! That's what came of trying to use a broad a, like Joe and Mr. Donner, and she couldn't say, "I know better, really, only I'm nervous." Her face flamed as she turned to Mr. Cuthbert, uncomforted by the superlative soufflé, a golden-brown balloon still gently heaving.

But at last the guests had gone, except Mrs. Martine. Quarter past eleven, and her herdic, ordered for half past ten, hadn't come yet.

"O'Leary's forgotten me, and I mustn't wait any longer. Now, nonsense, Joe. I won't hear of it. It's just a step, and bright moonlight. Mrs. Green! What are we going to do with this obstinate husband of yours?"

"I really want a breath of fresh air."

"Well, you're an angel, and I'm overwhelmed with gratitude. It's been so lovely, Mrs. Green. Look at that moon! Don't stand in the door with your bare neck. Joey, did you ever see such a moon?"

The front gate clicked. Joey, did you ever see such a moon? Kate banged the fire screen in front of the