Mrs. Penniman broke down again.
"It's not a joke!" she sobbed. Then with terrific effort—"Mar—married!"
"Winona Penniman married?"
The stricken mother opened swimming eyes at him, nodding hopelessly.
"Why, the little son of a gun!" said Wilbur, admiringly. "I didn't think she'd be so reckless!"
"I'm so glad!" whimpered the mother.
She seized the spoon and the bowl. Judge Penniman hovered at the open door of the kitchen.
"I told her what would happen!" he stormed. "She'll listen to me next time! Always the way in this house!"
Mrs. Penniman relapsed.
"We don't know the party. Don't know him from Adam. She don't even sign her right name."