Edith soon added to the sources of enjoyment by ordering cake and wine, for though not the eldest she seemed naturally to take the lead.
Mr. Goulden drank sparingly. He meant that not a film should come across his judgment. Mr. Van Dam drank freely, but he was seasoned to more fiery potations than sherry. Not so poor Gus, who, while he could never resist the wine, soon felt its influence. But he had sufficient control never to go beyond the point of tipsiness that fashion allows in the drawing-room.
Of course through Zell's unrestrained chatter the recently made plans soon came out.
Adroit Mr. Van Dam turned to Zell with an expression of much pleased surprise, exclaiming:
"How fortunate I am! I had completed my plans to go abroad some little time since."
Zell clapped her hands with delight, but an involuntary shadow darkened. Edith's face.
Gus looked nonplussed. He knew that his father and mother with difficulty kept pace with his home expenses and that a Continental tour was impossible for him. Mr. Goulden looked a little thoughtful, as if a new element had entered into the problem.
"Oh, come," laughed Zell. "Let us all be good, and go on a pilgrimage together to Paris—I mean Jerusalem."
"I will worship devoutly with you at either shrine," said Mr. Van Dam.
"And with equal sincerity, I suppose," said Edith, rather coldly.