When it came time for the merry party to break up, Frank Marion would not listen to any good-nights from Cragmore.
"You're not going away. That's the end of it," he declared. "I'll walk down with you to the hotel, and have your trunk sent up. You're to stay here until you get a boarding place to suit you. I wouldn't let you go then, if I did not know it was essential for you to live nearer your congregation."
Mr. Marion walked on ahead, pushing Jack's chair, with Miss Caroline on one side, and Miss Harriet on the other.
Bethany followed with George Cragmore. There was a brilliant moonlight, and they walked slowly, enjoying to the utmost the rare beauty of the night.
"Come in a moment, George," called Mr. Marion, as he wheeled Jack up the steps. "I want to finish spinning this yarn."
They all went into the hall.
Bethany opened the door into the library and struck a match. Cragmore took it from her and lighted the gas.
But Mr. Marion still stood in the hall with his attentive audience of three.
"I'll be through in a moment," he called. The sisters dropped down in a large double rocker.
"You might as well sit down, too, Mr. Cragmore," said Bethany. "His minute may prove to be elastic."