Dorinda came in just then to ask Mother some questions concerning dinner, for, though Mother had not seen the dining room since that day, six years ago, when she was carried from it to her bedroom, she kept her interest in household affairs and insisted on being consulted on all questions of management and internal economy. I rose from my chair and started toward the door.
“Are you going, Roscoe?” asked Mother.
“Yes.”
“Where?”
“Oh, just out of doors; perhaps to the boat-house.”
“Boy.”
“Yes, Mother?”
“What is the matter? Something has gone wrong; I knew it as soon as you came in. What is it?”
“Nothing. That is, nothing of any consequence. I'm a little out of sorts to-day and that man's letter irritates me. I'll get over it. I'll be back soon. Good-by, Mother.”
“Good-by, Boy.”