Captain Malepeste retorted:
"Well, if you think we should be willing to put up with more than one 'Dutchman,' and live in Germany—God forbid!"
Captain Bisherig and Captain Malepeste retired to the Music Room that they might settle with swords the question of the respective merits of Germany and France. Gertrude followed in the capacity of second and surgeon to both men. Susan and Doctor Alvin remained alone. Catherine had retired to her bedroom.
"So papa is coming back with a fortune," observed Dr. Alvin, affectionately. "And ... and what is our Susie going to do—give a ball, and invite the Governor of Kentucky?"
"If father comes back with a million, I am going somewhere to study art," replied Susan.
The reply came so quickly that Dr. Alvin was startled.
Susan had fought out her battles alone. Unperceived she had crossed the threshold of womanhood.
"Study art ... be an artist, when a girl is as pretty as you are, and heiress to five million dollars!" cried Doctor Alvin, laying aside the mask he had worn so long.
It was Susan's turn to be astonished. She looked at her guardian fixedly, expressing pain in her look.