“No, indeed,” with emphasis. “These heart attacks are not serious.” Marjorie, perceiving the blueness of her lips and her gray pallor, thought differently, and her heart ached for her gentle benefactress. She longed to take Mrs. Fordyce into her confidence, to tell her all her doubts and fears; but how could she tell the story of the thefts implicating Janet to the mother who adored her? “Janet has set her heart on having this dinner, and I cannot disappoint the child,” went on Mrs. Fordyce.
“But I don’t think Janet will enjoy entertaining while you are ill,” said Marjorie.
“Tut! Just an indisposition; don’t alarm the child,” sharply.
“I wouldn’t think of doing it,” protested Marjorie. “I only feared the sound of the guests’ voices might disturb you.”
“Not a bit of it; this house is soundproof,” smiled Mrs. Fordyce. “There was a time when I reveled in dinners and dances; now I have to take my fun by proxy—don’t begrudge me the crumbs.”
“Oh, Mrs. Fordyce!” Marjorie’s shocked voice brought another smile to her companion’s lips.
“There, there, dearie,” she patted Marjorie’s hand affectionately. “Don’t worry about a worn-out shell. Calderon has sent for a trained nurse; not that I need one, but the idea seemed to give him some comfort.”
“And of course you agreed.”
“Naturally; when you are married, my dear, you will soon discover that matrimony is made up of mutual concessions; that is, if you wish to stay married to the same man. Tell me, is there any truth in the report of your engagement....” Marjorie’s fingers tightened on the hand she was holding, then slowly loosened.... “to Captain Nichols?”
“Tom!” Her surprise was so pronounced that Mrs. Fordyce smiled to herself. “Why, he’s just like an elder brother.”