"Then you ought to be. Don't shilly-shally, Benis. It is a habit of yours. All of the Spences shilly-shally. Make certain that Desire is aware of your—er—affection. Mark my words—I have a feeling. She is fretting over Mary."
"I happen to know that she is not."
Small red flags began to fly from Miss Campion's prominent cheek-bones.
"We shall quarrel in a moment, Benis. You are pig-headed. Exactly as your father was, and without his common sense. I know you think me an interfering old maid. But I like Desire, and I won't have her made miserable. I want—"
"Hush—here she comes."
"Ill leave you then," in a sepulchral whisper. "And for goodness' sake, Benis, do something! ... Were you looking for me, my dear?" added Aunt Caroline innocently as Desire came slowly toward them. "Do not try to be energetic this morning. It is so very hot. Sit here. I'll send Olive out with something cool. I'd like you both to try the new raspberry vinegar."
Greatly pleased with her simple stratagem the good soul bustled away. Desire looked after her with a grateful smile.
"I believe Aunt Caroline likes me," she said with a note of faint surprise.
"Is that very wonderful?"
"Yes."