Rose shuddered. How far away she was from that cold, gray tumult of water. Of what manner of men were they who could battle so for hours in the freezing sleet?
"Well, now, we won't talk about the storm any more," Mrs. Harvey interposed. "It does no good, and Rose has had too much of it already. Besides, it's almost dinner time, Mr. Harvey. Go dress!"
There was not a thread ruffled on Mr. Harvey's person, but he dutifully withdrew. He had had a busy day, and had transacted business which affected whole states by its influence, yet he was quiet, cordial, exquisite.
"What does this mean, my dear?" he asked of Mrs. Harvey, who followed him out.
"It may mean a great deal, Willis," she said. "All I know is Elbert brought her home, his eyes shining with delight."
"Not to be wondered at," Mr. Harvey replied. "I'm only afraid of actresses," he added a little incoherently, but his wife understood him.
Elbert was not lacking in adroitness. He did not presume on his position during his mother's absence. He remained standing in the same position.
"How do you like coddling? Now, you see what I get when I dare to sneeze. Caroline will coddle any one into regular sickness if you let her."
"I was chilled, but I am not sick in the least."
"You'd better straighten up and shout at her when she comes in, or she'll be for sending your dinner up to you, and I don't want that."