"How could I?" she exclaimed. "Now, be reasonable. You are held responsible for Howard's present position."
"Yes—by the police," retorted Annie grimly, "and by a couple of yellow journals. I didn't think you'd believe all the gossip and scandal that's been printed about me. I didn't believe what was said about you."
Alicia started and changed color.
"What do you mean?" she exclaimed haughtily. "What was said about me?"
"Well, it has been said that you married old Jeffries for his money and his social position."
"'Old Jeffries!'" protested Alicia indignantly, "Have you no respect for your husband's father?"
"Not a particle," answered the other coolly, "and I never will have till he acts like a father. I only had one interview with him and it finished him with me for all time. He ain't a father—he's a fish."
"A fish!" exclaimed Alicia, scandalized at such lèse majesté.
Annie went on recklessly:
"Yes—a cold-blooded——"