Kate looked about admiringly.
“My, this is a gorgeous flat. Ain’t the furniture handsome!” she enthused.
“I’m so glad you like it. We’re going to be very happy. You do love me, don’t you?” Howard caught her in his arms.
“Of course, I do—you big boob.” She kissed him. “You know, I’m just crazy about you.”
“No more than I am about you.” He returned her kiss. “Still,” he added, “I’d give anything dear, if I could only persuade you to let my mother live with us.”
Kate turned irritably. “Do we have to start all over that thing again?” she asked, with eyes flashing. “I thought it was all settled.”
Further discussion was interrupted by Marjorie’s entrance. She was carrying a market basket and she looked pale and tired in her shabby little dress.
“Good evening, dear,” she said, as Howard rushed to her, and relieved her of the basket. “I didn’t expect you home so early. I have a cold supper, just the things you like. I had a little time to spare so I ran down to the corner to get a few things for to-morrow. Oh—I beg your pardon.” She noticed Kate for the first time. “I didn’t know you had company.”
“Mother,” he said, putting his arm about her, and leading her forward, “I want you to meet Katie—Katie Walsh—the girl I told you—I—I cared for. Well, she has promised—to—become my wife!”
“Your—your wife, dear? Why—why I am surprised.” She leaned against him heavily.