“Oh, yes, certainly, my grandfather is here. Our coming was his act. He fancied—it was only fancy—that my health and spirits were drooping in the country, and that I needed a change, and so he brought me to Washington. Of course being in mourning, we do not go to balls, only to receptions where there is no dancing. But how is it that you are here? Why are you not in Richmond?”
“I hope my uncle is quite well?” said Alexander, persistently ignoring her questions.
“Yes, quite. I was asking you why——”
“I do not see him; he is not with you this morning.”
“No; he is on the floor of the Senate Chamber. But, Alexander, I asked you why you are here.”
“Oh, I too, needed a change,” he answered, smiling.
“Ah! but surely, Alexander, can you know——By the way, what have you been doing with yourself for the last month in which we have not heard from you?”
“Here is a catechism! Wandering about to be sure; trying to shake off a very disagreeable companion—meaning myself.”
While he spoke she was regarding him with a very grave face; but there was more of pity than rebuke in its expression.
“Alick, you cannot know. When did you hear from your home?”