WHITEWASH
Conway. My advice is, announce your engagement at once, marry soon."
"Time enough to settle down," said Philippa, irritably.
"My dear," her aunt replied, "please remember that people usually have to settle up before they can settle down."
"Moralize all you please, aunty, dear," and Philippa took another tack, "but please don't go announcing till I tell you. I give you my word I'll not lose him."
Mrs. Ford spread her sails and swept up the stairs. "Very well," she said, over her shoulder; "but don't get too much mixed up with Valdeck."
"What have you against him? I thought you prided yourself on the charity of your judgment," sneered Philippa, as she followed in her aunt's rustling wake.
Mrs. Pendington Ford sighed. "I am charitable in my judgments, because one must have men for afternoon teas, but I wouldn't risk my queen to save a crook—I mean a rook—to play with. What will you wear to-night?"
Philippa considered. Valdeck would be asked,
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