“The minister’s second wife,” answered Aunt Peace, instantly gathering a personality from the brief description. “So, as Herr Kaufmann says. Might one inquire about the jewel she wears?” “It’s just a pin,” said Iris. [Pg 108] [Pg 108] “It looks more like a glass case. In someway, it reminds me of a museum.” “It has some of her first husband’s hair in it,” explained Iris. “Jerusalem!” cried Lynn. “That’s the limit! Fancy the feelings of the happy bridegroom whose wife wears a jewel made out of her first husband’s fur! Not for me! When I take the fatal step, it won’t be a widow.” “That,” remarked Margaret, calmly, “is as it may be. We have the reputation of being a bad lot.” Lynn flushed, patted his mother’s hand awkwardly, and hastily beat a retreat. They heard him in the room overhead, walking back and forth, and practising feverishly. “Margaret,” asked Miss Field, suddenly, “what are you going to make of that boy?” “A good man first,” she answered. “After that, what God pleases.” By a swift change, the conversation had become serious, and, always quick at perceiving hidden currents, Iris felt herself in the way. Making an excuse, she left them. For some time each was occupied with her own thoughts. “Margaret,” said Miss Field, again, then hesitated. [Pg 109] [Pg 109] “Yes, Aunt Peace—what is it?” “My little girl. I have been thinking—after I am gone, you know.”
Prev.
Back
Top