Mrs. Fordyce looked troubled. “Has Marjorie been officious in any way?”
“N—no,” reflectively. “But going to Marjorie for advice and seeing her presiding in your place isn’t agreeable to me. I miss you, mumsie, dear.”
“My baby girl!” Mrs. Fordyce crossed the room and gave her daughter a loving kiss and hug. “And I miss you; but, dearest, it is impossible for me to take part in the gay world, and I made this arrangement with Marjorie as the best way to further your interests and pleasure. Duncan tells me she is extremely popular and....”
“Oh, Duncan!” Janet shrugged her shoulders disdainfully. “Duncan will tell you anything to keep Marjorie here—he’s crazy about her.”
“What!” Mrs. Fordyce dropped back in her chair and gazed with astonished eyes at Janet.
“Haven’t you noticed his infatuation?”
“Noticed it? Of course I haven’t,” with some sternness. “What meddlesome Mattie has been hinting such a thing?”
“My two eyes,” tartly. “Hadn’t you better be using yours, mumsie?”
“That will do; I will not permit impertinence.”
“Well, if you will leave me under Marjorie’s influence....”