"They shall not part us," she whispered against his cheek. "Never, never, never!"
CHAPTER XXX
The Boston family were at breakfast. William was in his place next to his wife, and his uncle, who now lived in the house, sat opposite him. The two men were talking of stocks, bonds, securities, and insurance rates. Celeste was taking no part in the conversation. In her morning dress she looked as frail and dainty as ever.
Presently the maid who was waiting at the table bent over her shoulder and, smiling, whispered something to her.
"Oh, is he!" Celeste exclaimed. "Tell him to wait. I want to see him after breakfast."
"Who is it, dear?" William asked.
"It is Michael," she returned. "He has got back from New York. I want to find out how his mother is. He has been away longer than usual. I am afraid she may be worse."
Raising his coffee-cup to his lips, William dismissed the subject and continued his chat with his uncle.
"We certainly have made the bank pay," the older man said. "As you know, it was not in the best condition when I took hold of it. I had no idea running a bank was so interesting. I have handled my end well and you have yours. I have heartily enjoyed my work, but sometimes I am in doubt about you."