“I’d rather it were this way, Campbell. If you know that I care for you, you will write more freely and it will seem so different.”
“What a heavenly difference!”
Mrs. Van Buskirk ascended the stairs and stood at the top without the lovers’ being aware of her presence, and Mrs. Garland came from the rose room to join her. “There is another pair downstairs,” remarked Mrs. Van Buskirk with an expression of amusement. “But our lads will go more happily for having their sweethearts waiting for them. I thought that Campbell and Hilary were going to be so sensible and wait.” Mrs. Van Buskirk raised her voice purposely as she said this, though she and Aunt Hilary had their backs turned to the window-seat.
“What was that, Aunt Sylvia?” Campbell had risen, and now was walking slowly toward them, helping Hilary.
“Come and meet Mrs. Garland, Campbell. Mrs. Garland, this is my nephew and Hilary’s friend.” Trust Mrs. Van Buskirk not to take for granted any new relation.
“It’s my Aunt Hilary, Campbell,” said Hilary as her aunt cordially greeted the young man.
“I came up to tell you all that lunch will be ready before long. You will stay, will you not, Campbell? Have you seen your mother yet?”
“No, I haven’t been out home. This was on the way, and I couldn’t resist stopping to see if the girls had come.” Campbell looked down at Hilary with content.
“Why not telephone her that you are in the city and will be right out after lunch. Phil will drive you out. Perhaps Hilary will feel like going too.”
“No, Mrs. Van Buskirk, I think not. His mother will want him all to herself for a little while at least.”