"No," he answered. "I've just arrived from Ballyards this minute. What's wrong, Mrs. Bothwell!"
"There's nothing wrong that I know of. Only I don't understand you not knowing about it. Why aren't you at the church?"
"Church!"
"Aye. Sure, I'd be there myself only I can't leave the shop. I'm glad she's getting a fine day for it anyway!"
John touched her on the arm. "I don't understand what you're talking about, Mrs. Bothwell," he said. "What's happening!"
"Didn't you know she's being married the day on a policeman?..."
"Married!" he exclaimed incredulously.
"Aye. She's been going with him this long while back, and now that he's been promoted ... they've made him a sergeant ... they've got married. She's done well for herself. How is it you didn't know about it, and you and her such chums together?"
"Did I hear you saying she's getting married the day?" he murmured, gazing at her in a stupefied fashion.
"That's what. I keep on telling you," she replied, "only you don't pay no heed to me. I thought you were her cousin!..."