"Then it has not hurt your prospects?"
The question was in jest; but aunt Helen saw instantly into the heart of her niece. For a moment their eyes lingered in each other; then Alice looked down upon the floor.
"No it has not hurt my prospects." The answer was in a softer voice, and then followed a long-drawn inspiration, succeeded by the faintest of sighs.
A visit from Mr. Benton, on the next evening, removed all doubt from the dress question, if any remained.
XIII.
COFFEE vs. BRANDY.
"WE shall have to give them a wedding party," said Mrs. Eldridge to her husband.
Mr. Eldridge assented.
"They will be home to-morrow, and I think of sending out of invitations for Thursday."