"It is too complimentary; modesty forbids," Carl suggested.
"Why didn't you and Miss Helen favor us with something original, Mrs. Howard?" asked Mr. Caruth.
"He is making fun of the Harp Man's Benefit," said Miss Hazeltine.
"I am afraid we exhausted our genius on that occasion," her cousin answered, laughing.
"Uncle William, there is one thing you must tell us," said Bess, "and that is, when you were more surprised than to-night?"
"Oh, that was long ago!" he replied. "It was Aunt Marcia who surprised me." All eyes turned to Mrs. Hazeltine.
"Aunt Marcia, how did you do it?"
"I am sure I can't tell you. I think I am the one most apt to be surprised."
"You'll have to tell," said Carl, turning to his uncle.
"Well, if you must know, it was when she said 'Yes.'"