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  be able to reach St. Thomas on a given date.”

“Then why did you suggest it?”

“I think, Charlotte, it must have been empty-mindedness.”

“I regard it as a pure lack of self-control.”

“I’ve practiced self-control for one whole, endless year.”

“You have practiced filial obedience, I grant that. But what good do you expect to achieve if Duke does surmount the insurmountable and meet you to-morrow?”

“What good?” Dolly almost shrieked the question. “What good, do you ask? You callous, cold-hearted Charlotte! Why, four heavenly days spent in his society, to be sure—with you and his chaperon having a lovely time together somewhere not too near.”

“And you have n’t any sneaking idea of marrying him in St. Thomas? Because I won’t allow it.”

“No such luck! He would n’t let me,