“Oh no,” Anthony said at once. “I shall not do that. My decision is made, but I am content to wait for hers.”
But Verna knew nothing of this plan.
She knew only that Anthony was gentle, kindly and always at her service.
When a near neighbour gave a huge ball in his great country house, she was reluctant to attend.
“If you stay away when the rest of your family goes, you will draw attention to yourself,” Anthony pointed out. “Surely you don’t wish to be the subject of gossip?”
“Oh no! How horrible!” Verna shuddered. “But to be stared at by all those people – ”
“Will you trust me to take care of you?” Anthony asked. “You know I am your friend.”
At the ball they danced together and people said what a lovely couple they made.
Verna looked magnificent in a gown of blue satin, a dia
