The advent of Shirley, therefore, into her quiet and uneventful existence was as welcome as sunshine when it breaks through the clouds after days of gloom.

Quite a friendship sprang up between the two women, and when tired of writing, Shirley would go into Mrs.Ryder's room and chat until the financier's wife began to look forward to these little impromptu visits, so much she enjoyed them.
Nothing more had been said concerning Jefferson and Miss Roberts.
The young man had not yet seen his father, but his mother knew he was only waiting an opportunity to demand an explanation of the engagement announcements.

Her husband, on the other hand, desired the match more than ever, owing to the continued importunities of Senator Roberts.

As usual, Mrs.Ryder confided these little domestic troubles to Shirley.
"Jefferson," she said, "is very angry.

He is determined not to marry the girl, and when he and his father do meet there'll be another scene." "What objection has your son to Miss Roberts ?" inquired Shirley innocently.
"Oh, the usual reason," sighed the mother, "and I've no doubt he knows best.