"So my neighbors think I'm improper! Well, that's news and I'm glad to hear it. I've always wanted to do something unconventional, as you call it, but I ain't never had no chance. I always had to do what was expected of me. I had to live a life just about as broad as a needle, just because I had to make my livin' and couldn't afford to do nothin' that'd be different from what other folks done. But now I got a chance, and I'm glad I ain't too old yet to shock my neighbors. I'd keep John now if I had to tie him in his chair."
Miss Lee saw the light in the eyes, and hastened to say:
"Now, please, dear Miss Doane, don't think that I am blaming you. I understand perfectly—perfectly. I just feel that you ought to know what is being said."
"You're real kind, Miss Lee. People won't miss what's bein' said about 'em if you don't git paralyzed in your tongue."
Miss Lee flushed and gathered her threads together.
"Well, my intentions are always of the best, I assure you. I must be going. I see my maid talking to one of your gardeners. It must be stopped."
"Yes, I'd stop it if I was you. She might be enjoyin' herself. Good-by. And when you stop at your next place, tell 'em that I'm waitin' for that Committee, and that I'm enjoyin' John Brierly's visit, and that he's goin' to live here, and so's my babies, and that they don't need to know what's goin' on in my grounds if they don't stretch their necks to see over the walls when they ride by. Good-by."
Drusilla watched the woman as she went down the road and as she disappeared she heaved a sigh.
"Well, the Lord sendeth and the Lord taketh away. Blessed—I guess I'll go see John."
She went up to the small library where she knew she would find him poring over a book.