A Counterfeit Presentment; and, The Parlour Car

by William Dean Howells

Miss G., mortified, yet anxious.—"Well?"

Mr. R.—"Well, until they miss us, and run back to pick us up, I shall be obliged to ask your indulgence. I will try not to disturb you; I would go out and stand on the platform, but it's raining."

Miss G., listening to the rain-fall on the roof.—"Why, so it is!" Timidly, "Did you notice when the car stopped?"

Mr. R.—"No." He rises and goes out at the rear door, comes back, and sits down again.

Miss G. rises and goes to the large mirror to wipe away her tears. She glances at Mr. Richards, who does not move. She sits down in a seat nearer him than the chair she has left. After some faint murmurs and hesitations, she asks, "Will you please tell me why you went out just now?"

Mr. R., with indifference.—"Yes. I went to see if the rear signal was out."

Miss G., after another hesitation.—"Why?"

Mr. R.—"Because, if it wasn't out, some train might run into us from that direction."

Miss G., tremulously.—"Oh! And was it?"

Mr. R., dryly.—"Yes."