"I think when selfishness takes a form like this, it is a very valuable quality to possess," returned Mr. Lee.
Mrs. Dennison treated me to another flash from her scornful eyes, then added,—
"And while I was picking flowers, who should pass but Mr. Lawrence; so I made him stop. But I might as well have let him go on."
"Why so?" demanded Mr. Lee.
"Because he was very ungallant; did nothing but talk of Jessie, and never said a pretty thing to me."
Jessie blushed, but the smile on her lips showed that she was far from annoyed.
"So that is all my secret," continued Mrs. Dennison. "Now, we will take this unfortunate bouquet up to Mrs. Lee. Come, Jessie."
"May I go?" asked the gentleman.
"If you will be very good. But mind you do not tease for the flowers—we cannot spare a single one!"
"I promise."