"Don't you remember, mama, what I told you about being robbed by a man who sat next to me, and having my purse returned by a boy—a young gentleman."
"I don't mind being called a boy," said Mark. "I shall be one for some time yet."
"Well?"
"Mr. Mason is the one who recovered my purse. Before that he kindly offered to loan me some money. But what possible business can he have with you?"
"See what he has brought me from New York. He comes from Mr. Swan."
"Oh mama, how lovely! Is it a present for me? You know my birthday comes in eight months."
"My dear child, even if it came to-morrow I should hardly pay a thousand dollars for a birthday gift for you."
"A thousand dollars? It seems even more lovely now that I know the price."
"Remain here, Florence, and entertain Mr. Mason while I go to the library and write a check for the purchase money."
"All right, mama! Mr. Mason, why didn't you tell me what business you had with mama?"