“Oh, yes, I was, although the secret was to be kept until after the nomination for senator.”
It was Barbara’s turn now to blush. She looked around in some bewilderment. Grant had bestowed a vigorous kick on Roderick’s shins beneath the table. Only then did Roderick realize that he had broken a confidence. Dorothy was eyeing Grant reproachfully. It was a case of broken faith all round.
“Well, you sisters have no secrets from each other,” exclaimed Roderick, meeting the situation with a bright smile. “In just the same way Grant and I are chums and brothers. Besides it was a friendly warning. I was saved in time from the danger of shattered hopes and a broken heart, Miss Barbara.”
“So went fishing for consolation,” she replied with a smile.
“And found it,” laughed Grant.
“Who says that?” demanded Roderick, sternly. “Miss Holden would have every reason seriously to object.”
“The devil says it,” replied Grant, assuming a grave countenance.
“That’s a poor joke,” said Roderick, offended.
“Oh, Scotty Meisch is an observant lad,” remarked the editor drily.
“The printer’s devil!” cried Dorothy, clapping her hands. And all four laughed heartily—Roderick most heartily of all despite his momentary dudgeon.