The mother smiled lovingly. "My son, I'll attend to that. Ah me! suitors! They come in vain—unless I should be goaded by the sight of these dear Widewood acres invaded by the alien." She sweetened like a bride.
The son stood aghast. She lifted a fond hand to his shoulder. "John, do you know what heart hunger is? You're too young. I am ready to sacrifice anything for you, as I always was for your father. Only, I must reign alone in at least one home, one heart! Fear not; there is but one thing that will certainly drive me again into marriage."
"What's that, mother?"
"A daughter-in-law. If my son marries, I have no choice—I must!" She floated upstairs.
XXXVI.
A NEW SHINGLE IN SUEZ
Next day—"John, didn't you rise very early this morning?"
"No, ma'am."
He had not gone to bed. Yet there was a new repose in his face and energy in his voice. He ate breakfast enough for two.