“We’re all sorry Muriel isn’t with us.” Marjorie’s face fell at the remembrance. “We’re going to miss her dreadfully. We tried to coax her to come with us, but she said ‘no’ and wouldn’t give a reason for saying it. She’s been very mysterious about it.”
“Haven’t you the least idea of why she isn’t coming back?” questioned Gussie curiously.
“No. She insists that she isn’t engaged to be married. That would be her strongest reason for not coming back.”
“Aggravating old goose,” was Gussie’s fond opinion of Muriel. “Look out she isn’t simply kidding you. I’ll bet she’s engaged.”
“You asked for Ronny. There she is now on the steps.” Marjorie waved a gay signal to Veronica Lynde, who answered it in kind.
“She sent me a set of ducky postcards from Lower California this summer. I was so surprised. I never thought she’d do that.” Gussie spoke humbly.
“You’ve a bad case of too much respect for Ronny,” laughed Marjorie. “If she discovers it she will give you a good shaking.”
“I wish she would,” sighed Gussie. “I’d feel more at home with her afterward. I behaved like a savage to you last year. I’m sure Miss Lynde hasn’t forgiven me for that. She was pleasant with me after I turned civilized, but never friendly.”
A smile dimpled the corners of Marjorie’s mouth. “It’s all right,” she cheered downcast Gussie. “You’re friends with Ronny, only you didn’t know it. She loathes writing letters, or even postcards. You’ve had the sign and seal of her friendship.”
“Ha-a-a-a! Tell you that’s fine news,” Gussie instantly brightened.