Mrs.Frothingham, rising, said that she was almost always at home in the afternoon; that it would always give her so much pleasure---- 'You remain in England ?' asked Harvey, barely touching the hand which Alma cavalierly offered.
'I really don't know.

Perhaps I ought to, just to look after Mamma.' Mrs.Frothingham uttered a little exclamation, and tried to laugh.

On the instant, Harvey withdrew.
By the evening's post on the following day he was surprised to receive a letter addressed in Alma's unmistakable hand.

The contents did not allay his wonder.
DEAR MR ROLFE, I am sure you will not mind if I use the privilege of a fairly long acquaintance and speak plainly about something that I regard as important.

I wish to say that I am quite old enough, and feel quite competent, to direct the course of my own life.