So she encouraged Kathleen to look forward with pleasure to her marriage.
"And I should let it be soon," she said. "Teddy wishes it very, very much, and has begged me to plead his cause."
"Oh, not soon!" cried the young girl, in alarm.
"Why not, my dear? As well one time as another, if you mean to marry him at all."
"I—I want to wait until Helen Fox comes home. She always promised to be my bride-maid."
"You can write to Helen. It will take a few weeks to get your trousseau ready, and by then she can come home."
The big, dark eyes were dilated with terror.
"I should not like to hurry Helen home. I want—want—her—to enjoy her trip as long as she likes," faltered Kathleen, piteously.
"You dear, timid child! you are determined to make Teddy wait for his happiness," laughed her friend. "Well, never mind: let it be as long as you choose. Only you will not mind if I begin to get your trousseau ready? You know there are always so many delays."
A burning blush stole over Kathleen's pure cheek.