“Oh,” she cried with laughter in her eyes, “you’ve had a scene with him? I knew you would! He’s so quaint and old-fashioned!”
“Yes,” I said, “and he talks exactly like your aunt.”
“Oh! You’ve met her too! I’m missing all the fun!”
I had a sudden inspiration—one that I was proud of. “My dear girl,” I said, “maybe you call it fun!” And I looked really agitated.
“Why, what’s the matter?” she cried.
“What could you expect?” I asked. “I fear, my dear Sylvia, I’ve shocked your aunt beyond all hope.”
“What have you done?”
“I’ve talked about things I’d no business to—I’ve bossed the learned doctor—and I’m sure Aunt Varina has guessed I’m not a lady.”
“Oh, tell me about it!” cried Sylvia, full of delight.
But I could not keep up the game any longer. “Not now, dear,” I said. “It’s a long story, and I really am exhausted. I must go and get some rest.”