Her eyes filled with tears, and she covered them with both hands.
"I am not angry, child, only surprised."
"But you will be—you will be very angry when I tell you that some of the invitations are sent out. Oh, I wish I were dead!"
Her lips quivered like those of a grieved and half-frightened child. Her cheeks were wet, and their color had left them.
"Oh, Grantley, Grantley, don't—don't look at me in that way. Dear Bessie, tell him how sorry I am."
Mellen was walking the floor in considerable agitation. He had hoped for a little peace in his own home—a few days of tranquil confidence with his wife. Now everything was broken in upon. There would be nothing but confusion up to the very hour of his starting.
Elsie watched him furtively, and with sidelong glances. She knew how terrible his anger was when once aroused.
"Oh, if my poor mother had lived."
"Peace, Elsie! I will not have that sacred name dragged into an affair like this. Have your way, but remember it is the last time that you must venture on the prerogatives of my wife."
Elsie left the room really frightened, and sobbing piteously, but the moment she found herself in her boudoir a smile broke through her tears, and she laughed out.