“STOICS' CLUB. “DEAR FATHER,
“Yes, Bellew is bringing a suit. I am taking steps in the matter. As to the promise you ask for, I can give no promise of the sort. You may tell Bellew I will see him d—d first.
“Your affectionate son,
“GEORGE PENDYCE.”
Mr. Pendyce received this at the breakfast-table, and while he read it there was a hush, for all had seen the handwriting on the envelope.
Mr. Pendyce read it through twice, once with his glasses on and once without, and when he had finished the second reading he placed it in his breast pocket. No word escaped him; his eyes, which had sunk a little the last few days, rested angrily on his wife's white face. Bee and Norah looked down, and, as if they understood, the four dogs were still. Mr. Pendyce pushed his plate back, rose, and left the room.
Norah looked up.
“What's the matter, Mother?”
Mrs. Pendyce was swaying. She recovered herself in a moment.
“Nothing, dear. It's very hot this morning, don't you think? I'll Just go to my room and take some sal volatile.”