In the silence a slight noise became audible from the bedroom behind Aunt Mary--a word or two of whispering and then a sound as if some one tiptoeing had stumbled a little.
The Mayor jumped to his feet.
"Who's there?" he cried, pointing.
For an instant Aunt Mary was out of countenance. But only for an instant. Then, without rising or turning her head, she called:
"Come in, Alicia."
A moment's silence. Then a laugh, of a premeditated sweetness which Merriam remembered, and Alicia Wayward stood in the doorway.
The Mayor and Merriam rose. Mollie June, too, jumped up. Only Aunt Mary remained calmly seated.
After a second's pause in the effective framing of the door, Alicia advanced with an air of eager pleasure and held out her hand to the Mayor.
"Good evening, Mr. Black."
The Mayor was a very susceptible male where women like Alicia were concerned. He took her hand.