LADIES-IN-WAITING
be able to reach St. Thomas on a given date.”
“Then why did you suggest it?”
“I think, Charlotte, it must have been empty-mindedness.”
“I regard it as a pure lack of self-control.”
“I’ve practiced self-control for one whole, endless year.”
“You have practiced filial obedience, I grant that. But what good do you expect to achieve if Duke does surmount the insurmountable and meet you to-morrow?”
“What good?” Dolly almost shrieked the question. “What good, do you ask? You callous, cold-hearted Charlotte! Why, four heavenly days spent in his society, to be sure—with you and his chaperon having a lovely time together somewhere not too near.”
“And you have n’t any sneaking idea of marrying him in St. Thomas? Because I won’t allow it.”
“No such luck! He would n’t let me,
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