"What he had in mind," continued Aunt Caroline, "was killing two birds with one stone. It would give you an opportunity to combine society with other worthy enterprises. As I myself know, there are many people of very fine standing who are interested in the various religious and charitable organizations, while the extent of Peter's knowledge of the matter really surprised me. Through the medium of such organizations he assured me that it would be possible for you to meet some of the most socially desirable families. Of course, you would also meet other persons whom it is not so important for you to know, but that is a detail which would regulate itself. At the same time, you would have an opportunity to do some morally uplifting work."
Bill moistened his lips and stole a horrified glance at Mary Wayne. This time she was stirring her tea.
"Well, William, what do you think of the idea?"
"Preposterous!"
Aunt Caroline was frankly surprised.
"Absolute nonsense! Drivel!"
"William!"
"Well, it is. It's nothing but sanctimonious bunk."
"Now, William, control yourself. Consider for a moment——"
"Aunt Caroline, I can't consider it. Gee whiz, if I've got to go into society I'm not going to use the family entrance. I'm going in through the swinging doors or I don't go in at all. And I'd like to know what business my valet has butting into my affairs."