“It is a pure coincidence,” said Mrs. Dodd, with an admirable imitation of cool confidence.
Julia said nothing; but she now rose and put both arms round Edward's neck, and kissed him fervidly again and again, holding the newspaper tight all the time.
“There,” said Mrs. Dodd: “see what you have done.”
“Oh, it is all right,” said Edward cheerfully. “The British fireman is getting hugged no end. Why, what is the matter? have you got the hiccough, Ju?”
“No; no! You are a true brother. I knew all along that he would explain all if he was alive: and he is alive.” So saying she kissed the 'Tiser violently more than once; then fluttered away with it to her own room ashamed to show her joy, and yet not able to hide it.
Mrs. Dodd shook her head sorrowfully: and Edward began to look rueful, and doubt whether he had done wisely. I omit the discussion that followed. But the next time his duties permitted him to visit them Mrs. Dodd showed him the 'Tiser in her turn, and with her pretty white taper finger, and such a look, pointed to the following advertisement:
AILEEN AROON.—I do DISTRUST
APPEARANCES. But if you ever loved me
explain them at once. I have something for
you from your dear sister.
“Poor simple girl,” said Mrs. Dodd, “not to see that, if he could explain at all, he would explain, not go advertising an enigma after acting a mystification. And to think of my innocent dove putting in that she had something for him from his sister; a mighty temptation for such a wretch!”
“It was wonderfully silly,” said Edward; “and such a clever girl, too; but you ladies can't stick to one thing at a time; begging your pardon, mamma.”
Mrs. Dodd took no notice of this remark.