IX
HAT reason does she give?" asked Gordon.
"None." Mrs. Ames laid the two letters beside her plate and helped herself sparingly to the tenderloin fillet. "I suppose it's her pride. Her mother was always just the same way." She took up the briefer of the two communications and sniffed. "Purple ink, too! There's nothing more vulgar than purple ink. She says—let me see" Mrs. Ames held her lorgnette between her eyes and the offending note—"She says: 'My dear sir: Your letter of the 29th informing me that a sum of money has been placed in your hands for investment for my benefit has been received. There is evidently some misapprehension as to my financial condition. Please say to the person you represent that I appreciate the kindness, but must refuse the charity offered. Any remittances sent by you will be promptly returned. Very sincerely, Margaret Milburn.' I knew her
73
