But Lesley did get up, and stood with her back to her aunt as she read the Louisville version of Tony Kidd's sensational "story." She took a long time to read it, and when she had come to the end, she laid the paper on her aunt's lap without saying a word.
"Well—has it struck you dumb?" exclaimed Mrs. Loveland, disappointed: for if she spoiled Lesley with petting, Lesley spoiled her with responsiveness.
"I am rather horrified," said the girl.
"No wonder. You actually knew him—or thought you did."
"I think so still."
"Why—did you suspect at all?"
"Nothing that I don't suspect now. Poor fellow!"
"'Poor!' Dearest, that's carrying soft-heartedness too far. Think—if he'd married some girl."
"I have often thought of it."
"What must Mrs. Milton and Fanny be feeling?" went on Mrs. Loveland. "Friends on the ship—and now he knocks down the husband and father in the street, because——"