"Now I'll have breakfast," she said cheerfully. "I'll only eat a little because we must go out and see Star. You waited for me, didn't you?" pausing in sudden apprehension.
"Yes, indeed," replied Harry, collecting himself. "We haven't been off the piazza."
"Goody. I'm so glad. I'll hurry."
Mrs. Forbes followed the child as she bounded away, and the father and mother sank upon an old settle of Flemish oak, gazing at one another. The veil having been completely lifted from their eyes, each was viewing recent circumstances in a new light.
At last Harry began to laugh in repressed fashion. "Sold, and the money taken!" he ejaculated, softly smiting his knee.
His wife smiled, too, but there was a mist in her eyes.
"I smell a large mouse, Julia. How is it with you?"
"You mean my invitation?"
"I mean that we come under the head of those things that can't be cured and must be endured."
She nodded. "And that's why he wants to take me to the seashore."