“It’s a shame!” There was honest indignation in Maynard’s voice. “Suppose I try and persuade your mother to reconsider——”
“Would you—could you?” Evelyn was a trifle incoherent. “Oh, but you can do anything. Do say a good word for René.”
“I will, indeed,” and Maynard, touched by her emotion, took her hand in a firm clasp. “I will aid you in every possible way.”
Evelyn smiled through her tears. “Then will you see that this letter reaches René?”
“I will; to-night if possible.” Maynard placed the envelope in an inside pocket. “Tell me, Evelyn, did René appear agitated when he reached Mrs. Van Ness’ apartment last night?”
“Agitated—no.” Evelyn laughed softly at a sudden recollection. “Only pleasurably excited,” she added demurely, and Maynard chuckled.
“Can you tell me why Burnham dislikes René?” he asked.
“He hasn’t any grounds for disliking him,” retorted Evelyn loyally. “It is just his natural cussedness.”
Again Maynard chuckled. “You don’t show any great fondness for your step-father,” he said, and Evelyn colored, this time with indignation as unhappy memories rose.
“Why should I?” she demanded. “He has tried repeatedly to prejudice Mother against me. Oh, how could she marry him? She must have remembered my dear splendid father.”