At this moment, the Fabians and Ashbys entered the room, and Mr. Alexander winked at his daughter for secrecy on the subject they had been discussing. Soon after the others sat down at the breakfast table, Mrs. Alexander joined them, and the conversation turned to their parting.
“When do you plan to leave London, Mrs. Alexander?” asked Mr. Ashby, politely.
“Tomorrow, I hope. I want to fit Dodo up in some decent gowns before I take her to such a fine place as Osgood Hall.”
“When do you leave, Mr. Ashby?” asked Dodo.
“I expect to take Ruth and my wife down to my cousin’s, at Brighton, this afternoon. Then I have to go to different towns, you know, to collect things for my customers in the States.”
“And you, Polly?” Dodo turned to the girl she liked best of those she had met that summer.
“We are going to remain in London for a few days more, and see the Museums and galleries, then go on to Paris.”
“I wish I was going with you,” said Dodo. “Maybe we can meet in Paris, soon, and I can go on with you-all to learn more of antiques and decorating.”
“That must be as your father and mother say, Dodo,” Mr. Fabian now remarked.
“I always said Dodo could do as she liked,” quickly said Mr. Alexander.