“An old friend? Why, he was nothing but a policeman. I have taken pains to inquire.”
“Still he was an honest and honorable man.”
“Every inch of him,” said Carter, stoutly. “My roof covers no better man to-night.”
“As for the young lady,” joined in Mrs. Carter, taking fresh courage, “she is likely to become nearer to us than a friend. Isn’t that so, Mr. Carter?”
Carter hesitated a moment, feeling as if his wife had entrapped him into a premature compliance with her wishes; but he spoke at last, resolutely enough.
“Yes, Mrs. C., there is no harm in saying that, if Ross stands his chance for a share of my property, the young lady will enjoy it equally with him.”
Miss Spicer pursed up her lips till they almost emitted a whistle.
“So, that’s the way the wind blows,” she said. “Wont it be fun to tell the girls!”
“Miss Spicer, we are keeping Mrs. Carter’s guests from her,” said Ivon, observing a couple fighting their way through the crowd.
“Just like me, always in somebody’s path!” exclaimed the girl, drawing back, but still keeping near the hostess. “Mercy on me! who are those people? Stupendous! Do look!”