"Of course I know that," said Gertrude, "but what of her? who is she?"
"Why, I've told you once, she is Fanny Middleton," said Frank.
These and similar answers were all Gertrude could draw from him, and she fell into a fit of pouting; but Frank was accustomed to that, and consequently did not mind it. Next he announced his intention to visit his Uncle Wilmot. Gertrude instantly exclaimed, "Now, Frank, you are too bad. Just as soon as you hear Fanny Middleton is in New York, you start off to see her, without even telling me who she is, or what she is. In my opinion you are in love with her, and do not wish us to know it."
This started up Mrs. Cameron's ideas, and she said, "Frank, I am inclined to believe Gertrude is right; but you surely will be respectful enough to me to answer my questions civilly."
"Certainly," said Frank. "Ask anything you please; only be quick, for it is almost car time."
"Well then, do you intend to make this Miss Middleton your wife?"
"I do, if she will have me," said Frank.
[pg 175]The distressed lady groaned audibly, but continued, "One more question, Frank. Is she rich and well connected?"
Frank passed his hand through the thick curls of his brown hair, and seemed to be trying hard to think of something. Finally he answered, "Why, really, mother, I never once thought to ask that question."
"But," persisted Mrs. Cameron, "you can judge by her appearance, and that of her parents. Did you not see them?"