"But—but, Caroline! You cannot merely announce that you are going abroad! You are a person of importance—your every move is observed. People will see that you do not sail. How will you get around that?"
It sounded a poser. But Mrs. De Peyster was unruffled.
"Very simply, Olivetta. You shall sail in my stead."
"Me!" cried Olivetta, yet more bewildered.
"Yes, you."
"But—but, if you cannot afford Europe for yourself, how can you afford it for me?"
"It would take a great many thousands for me to go in the manner that is expected of me. I cannot afford that. For you, Olivetta, since the passage is already paid, it would take but a few hundred—and that I can afford."
"You—you mean that I am to pass for you?"
"Yes."
"But I never can! People will know the difference!"