"When are you going?"
"This week, I think."
"I suppose that means we will not see you again."
"Not if it rests with me." Jean fancied that Catherine smiled, but it was too dark to see. If Catherine was going to be nasty, there was really no obligation to consider her any longer. Jean went on toward the hall, but Catherine's next statement stopped her.
"I suppose Nan will be the next. She's getting the home-bug, too—and she has a tremendous respect for you."
"I don't see how even Nan's energy could keep house and work with the hours she has."
"Nan might give up her job—if the home-bug gets bad enough. Philip is always suggesting that she keep house for him and Nan only needs a starter. Funny, isn't, how fashionable it's getting—to want a home? Do you remember those old teas at your place that winter? Perhaps we've all gone as far as we can."
Jean resisted the longing to switch on the lights and say, "I'm sorry, Catherine. It was the last thing that would have entered my mind. I've been happy here with you, but it's best for me to go." Instead she moved away across the living-room, for she felt that Catherine's eyes were actually touching her in the murky light.
"Perhaps we've gone so far we're coming clear round on the other side again—if you're right about it's being fashionable to want a home."
There was a faint noise as if Catherine were laughing. "I'm not accusing you of any such weakness, but Nan would like it. There have been times when Nan has been perfectly frank about it, and I recognize the symptoms coming on. Besides—Philip wants one—and Nan would do anything for—'Philly.'"