The Charm School
"I cannot be disturbed to-night, Elise. I will speak to you in the morning."
"Why, grandfather, what a beautiful dressing-gown that is! You look like an Old Master in it—just that crimson flash about the ankle where it falls back."
"Shut the door when you go out," said Mr. Johns, pretending that he was still reading.
"Yes, I will," said the little princess sitting down on the edge of his bed.
"Don't sit on the bed!" roared Mr. Johns. "Uncomfortable enough without that, I expect."
"Well, where shall I sit?" she asked, as one who only asked for guidance.
"Go to bed," said Mr. Johns, and this time he turned a page and peered at the top of the next one.
"Mr. Johns," said Austin, "I must tell you that Elise and I mean to be married."
They waited, expecting a grunt, and the silence was even more terrifying. At this point, utterly disregarding realism, Mr, Johns turned over another page.
"Yes," said Elise, "we're going to be married and live here and run the school."
"Sure about that?" asked Mr. Johns.
"Sure," answered Elise.
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