“I never thought you’d really do it, mother,” Ethel moaned. “I didn’t think you’d be cruel enough to visit this shame on me. Everybody will talk; we’ll be ostracized by all our friends.”
Grace’s attempt to restore harmony only infuriated Ethel.
“I’ve told Osgood the whole story,” Ethel announced. “I felt that was the only honorable thing to do and he’s been splendid about it. We’ve been engaged since Easter and he’s ready to marry me at any time. I’d hoped we’d be able to live at home for a little while, but now I’m going! I can already feel that abandoned creature in the house! Osgood has a good offer in Cincinnati and I’ll marry him tomorrow and go away and never come back!”
“I would if I were you,” said Grace, as Ethel stalked from the room. “Safety first! Grab all the life belts.”
Ethel paused and pointed an accusing finger at Grace.
“You! You’re a pretty one to talk!”
Stephen Durland raised his head, coughed and returned to his reading. Roy announced that he was going down town. The front door slammed upon him and Mrs. Durland burst into tears.
“You don’t think—you don’t think Ethel means she’s going!”
“I certainly hope she means it,” Grace replied wearily. “Osgood’s not a bad fellow and maybe he can beat some sense into her.”