"It seems to me, Barry," said Ruth mischievously, "that you're very much interested in the handsome Mrs. Bradley."
This time Miss Chichester responded for Barry. "He is, Ruth; but purely in a sociological way. He hasn't the faintest idea of becoming unduly impressed by her beauty. Have you, Barry?"
"She's a deucedly handsome woman," replied Barry.
"Handsome or not," said Mrs. Tracy, "I don't think such persons should be encouraged and made much of. Mr. Farrar is certainly making a very serious mistake when he caters to the lower classes. Why, if he had his way, there'd be no exclusiveness in the church at all."
"Indeed there wouldn't," replied Ruth heartily.
"Right you both are!" exclaimed Barry. "That is as—as a rule. Every rule has its exceptions, you know."
"Well," added Mrs. Tracy, moving toward her car, "don't let's talk about it any more. It doesn't leave a good taste in the mouth. You'll ride up with us, won't you, Philip, and have luncheon? No? Then give my love to your mother and tell her I'm coming over to see her to-morrow afternoon. Come, Ruth!"
She entered her car, assisted by Westgate, but her daughter hesitated.
"I've a mind," she said, "to walk up the hill with Philip; it's such a beautiful day. I'll be home long before luncheon time, mother."
"A very wise suggestion," remarked Westgate, "and one which I shall be delighted to adopt."
"What a happy thought!" exclaimed Miss Chichester. "We'll do that too, won't we, Barry?"
"Why," said Barry, "I thought of going down-town for a little while before luncheon. I want to slip into the office and look at something."
"Oh, Barry! And it's such a beautiful day!"
Miss Chichester looked up at him pleadingly.
