Miss Plummer had one of her unaccountable changes of mood; she became compassionate and almost affectionate toward Miss Dolly.
“Poor darling!” she said. “You must come home with me, and I’ll cheer you up.”
“We might all go somewhere,” said Miss Dolly. “To Seaview Inn, perhaps—”
“Let’s!” said Miss Plummer. “Music and bright lights. Let’s go, good people!”
“I’m sorry,” said Gabrielle distinctly, “but I’m going home. Are you coming with me, Hiram?”
He glanced at Dolly, and he might as well have spoken aloud to her, asking, shall I go with her, or stay with you. She lowered her eyes, and he turned to his wife.
“We can all start together,” said Miss Plummer. “Neely, you’re coming, of course? And Johnny?”
“Miss MacGowan,” said Gabrielle, “won’t you come home to dinner with me?”
That was
