CHAPTER VII
THE GATHERING OF THE CLANS
If Mabel had counted on creating a sensation, she succeeded beyond her wildest hopes.
For a moment, Joe thought that he must have taken leave of his senses.
“What!” he cried, incredulously, half rising to his feet.
This sudden ejaculation drew the attention of all the others seated at the table.
“Land sakes, Joe!” expostulated his mother, “you almost made me upset my tea cup. What’s the matter?”
“Enough’s the matter,” responded Joe, jubilantly. “That is, if Mabel really means what she said just now.”