Toney was simply bent on praising Jim, forgetting that these horrible moments had been endured for Aunt Dove's sake.
"I couldn't have got through but for that soaked towel, Miss Whitburn, you saved my life, I shall feel in your debt for the rest of my life," said Miss Grossman, who having washed and dressed looked quite normal. Toney laughed.
"Oh don't, please, a towel is a very old joke, isn't it?"
"I find, to my surprise, that the obvious escapes one at such moments. Lady Dove rang the bell in my room violently and, smelling smoke, I ran to her without thought. Once there I did the best I could for us both."
"Well, that was real lucky for her, but I guess you were nearly stifled in that wardrobe," said Toney smiling. "Tell me what Aunt Dove said afterwards?"
"If you wish to know, she said it was the first time you had been of real use."
"That's grand from her! Now, Miss Honoria, I think I'll go and curl up till Uncle Evas comes. I don't want to go to bed, thank you," she said smiling bravely.
"Then just come to Lewis' study. No one will go there to disturb you, dear," answered Miss Honoria.
"All right, I'll go, don't come with me. Maud's somewhere telling Mr. Lang."
Toney washed her face and brushed her hair in Maud's room, then she hurried towards the study. She would like to be there, quiet and alone; she wanted to get rid of that horrible feeling of holding on to an impossible position. She had fancied herself braver. Pups wouldn't have turned a hair over it—neither would she formerly. This life of luxury was unnerving her; how glad, how very glad she was that her will had been altered. She heaved a sigh of relief as she opened the door. Then she stood still thunderstruck! The room was not empty, Maud was talking eagerly to Edward Lang and they were close to each other and he was holding her hand. How horrid of Maud! What would Lewis think?