Carmella Commands
we’re to have Mr. Barrington home to luncheon today. He’s just telephoned. He doesn’t usually come. He’ll be here a little later. We won’t wait.”
A sudden tremor shook Carmella. Mr. Barrington—to sit and eat with him, at his own table! Her mind surged into a thousand paths, and tried to hold to them all at once. Would there be a chance to talk real estate? Would there be a chance? Would there be?
Mrs. Barrington found her guest distracted for the next few moments, but thought it due to Carmella’s confusion at being in a boulevard home for the first time. Carmella’s actual thoughts would have astounded her.
Presently Hammond announced luncheon. Mrs. Barrington’s two children followed the butler in, and she introduced them.
“My children, Kate. Margaret—and John. I want you to know each other.”
Carmella extended her hand to each, having mentally pre-viewed this scene for several nights. The trio solemnly shook hands.
I n the dining room Carmella was seated at Mrs. Barrington’s right. It interested her to see that Mr. Barrington’s chair was at his wife’s left. Her parents, now, sat at opposite ends of the table. She considered this deeply while waiting for the luncheon to appear.
The serving of the food interested her more than the food itself. She watched her hostess closely, as
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