“Over in France,” the new clerk returned briefly.
Julie went back with her purchases and got herself some breakfast, and was feeding the famished kitten, when the back door darkened and Mrs. Dolly Anderson’s large figure towered above her.
“Well,” she cried, her eyes snapping, “I never b’lieved ’em when they said you was back.”
“Yes, I’m back,” Julie returned simply.
The other continued to stand and stare. “Where you been all this time?” she demanded at length.
“In Richmond,” Julie answered.
“In Richmond? Well, there’s been a heap of talk goin’ the rounds about you, Julie.”
“I suppose there has,” Julie assented. She sat down and, taking the kitten which was fed and comforted now, upon her knee, began to stroke it softly. “Won’t you sit down?” she said politely.
“No, I’ll not sit down,” Mrs. Anderson returned heavily, and remained upon her feet.
“Julie,” she said at length, “did you—did you—” she hesitated.