“Do you think we could pass wine? In father’s day. . . .”
“I think that would be an affectation now. Everybody knows that we do not keep wine in the house. . . . It would give us an opportunity of asking Cousin Emily Gore here. . . . Huh? . . . She affects to be interested in. . . . And we cannot entertain such rich people in any formal way.”
“Do you suppose Amasa Gore would come?” asked Mrs. Boardman eagerly.
“Naturally; if it was in the evening. Cousin Emily is not the sort of woman who goes out in the evening without her husband.”
“Oh! in that case he could meet Wilfred, without it seeming to have been contrived! Oh, sister! if Mr. Gore would only take an interest in Wilfred, the boy’s future would be secure! . . . But Wilfred is so difficult!”
“I will prepare him beforehand,” said Miss Gittings.
“No! No! sister. I confess I do not understand the boy, but I am sure that would be a mistake! He becomes so cynical and obstinate when we try to point out a proper course of action to him. Say nothing to him beforehand. It is the only way!”
“Oh well, in any case Mr. Gore must do something. . . . Huh? . . . We may properly let them see that we expect it. . . . His wife’s first cousin only once removed! . . . A pitcher of lemonade will be much more suitable. . . .”
“What about a bottle of whiskey for the gentlemen?”
“Cousin Emily would hardly approve. She has strong views. . . .”