“The idea warms my sporting blood,” said Bud. “Once the struggle begins we’ll post the bets on the club bulletin. I’ll start with two to one on you, old top!”
“I’m surprised at Connie—she seems to be helping on the boosting of the Hardens,” said Maybelle. “It must occur to her that it wouldn’t help her own fortunes to have a healthy young stepmother-in-law prance into the sketch. When Frank Mills passes on some day Connie’s going to be all set to spend a lot of his money. Connie’s one of the born spenders.”
“That’s all well enough,” remarked Bud. “But just now Connie’s only too glad to have Mills’s attention directed away from her own little diversions. She and George Whitford——”
“Bud!” Maybelle tapped her water glass sharply. “Remember, boys, these people are our friends!”
“Not so up-stage, darling!” said Bud. “I’m sure we’ve been talking only in a spirit of loving kindness!”
“Honorable men and women—one and all!” said Bruce.
“Absolutely!” Bud affirmed, and the subject was dropped.
A few nights later Bruce was obliged to listen to similar talk at the Freemans’, though in a different key. Mrs. Freeman was indignant that Mills should think of marrying Millicent.
“There’s just one right man in the world for every woman,” she declared. “And the right man for Millicent is you, Bruce Storrs!”
Bruce met her gaze with mock solemnity.