“Yes. To Lady Cullen. And she said positively over the long distance last night to Dad, that she never would have bought it but for you.”
“Of course, she would,” scoffed Nancy.
“Nope. Dad said that place just wouldn’t sell. He and his men have shown it to so many. But dear Mrs. Cullen!” Ruth sighed foolishly. “She told Dad that the young lady was so enthusiastic over the place that she was positive her granddaughter, Naomi, would react in the same way. Notice that Nan, re-act.”
“Yeah,” drawled Nancy. “That’s what this is—I’m—re-acting,” and she fell further back among her pillows.
“But really, Nan, it is true,” insisted Ruth, laying hold of one of Nancy’s long, slender hands. “And you needn’t blush about it, either. I think the way you blush under that olive skin of yours—” But a pillow, vigorously applied to Ruth’s face, checked further compliments.
“If you don’t want to hear,” Ruth presently continued.
“Of course I do. I’m just as glad as glad, Ruth, that your dad has sold the place, but I know very well Mrs. Cullen would have bought it anyhow.”
“She wouldn’t. Dad says so, she says so—I say—says—so,” declared Ruth. “And if you don’t believe it just listen to this.” She changed her position sitting up very straight and facing Nancy very positively to make the statement most emphatic. “Mrs. Cullen very tactfully suggested that your interest and your success be—remunerated.”
“Ruth!”
“Now, don’t let me hurt your feelings, Nan, but Dad would honestly love to have you accept.”