"I wish you had a romance of your own, Toney. If Mr. Lang——"
"Gracious stars! I hope he won't. Just imagine me as the future Lady Southbourne having to do the civil to the county, besides—he would want my money."
"But you would like him to have it."
"No, I shouldn't! You see, Maud, it's dedicated."
"But you could do good with it together."
"But I might be out of it, besides I couldn't love him. I'm just going to be an old maid and look after the declining years of Aunt Dove and Uncle Evas! By the way, Aunt Dove has had a serious difference with Miss Grossman. I do hope she won't go. She is her discipline."
"I don't think anyone can stand it long," said Maud smiling.
"My Chum stood it fifteen years; ouf! Good-bye, Maud, and keep my secret. I'm going to have a good think about it," and Toney disappeared, and Maud was left to grieve over her sister's dead romance.
CHAPTER XX.
SHAPING A ROMANCE.