_Detachment_ was perhaps the characteristic note of Mrs.Boyce's manner,--a curious separateness, as it were, from all the things and human beings immediately about her.
Marcella pondered.
"I shall ask Mr.Harden about the stories," she said presently.

"He will have heard them in the village.

I am going to the church this morning." Her mother looked at her--a look of quiet examination--and smiled.

The Lady Bountiful airs that Marcella had already assumed during the six weeks she had been in the house entertained Mrs.Boyce exceedingly.
"Harden!" said Mr.Boyce, catching the name.

"I wish that man would leave me alone.