He knew full well
what had prompted the deed, and he shuddered as he thought of his
guileless child associated with such a character. He was in a
quandary as to what steps to take that he could ward off suspicion.
Mr. Verne wished to keep the affair a secret until he could have
further ground for action. He knew that Mrs. Montgomery would be a
sure ally, but second thoughts prompted him to say nothing of the
matter just then, so he calmly supped his coffee at luncheon and
talked over certain little plans with more than ordinary interest.
"Mr. Lawson is much engaged lately," remarked Mrs. Montgomery, as
she passed a second fragrant cup of coffee to Mr. Verne; "he only
had time to make a short call last evening. I forgot to tell you
before."
"What is the matter, Stephen, you look alarmed or surprised or some
such way that I cannot describe," said the woman, glancing again at
her brother-in-law.
"I must give you credit for having more of the imaginative than I
thought, Hester," said Mr. Verne, trying to cover his agitation with
an accusation.
"I don't know whether to take that as a compliment or not, Stephen,"
said Mrs. Montgomery helping herself to another of the delicious
cheese cakes, the pride of the time-honored cook at "Sunnybank.
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