"Oh yes we are!" answered Mrs. Comstock. "You set out the things
for biscuit, and lay the table." She turned again to Philip. "I know
considerable about your father," she said. "I have met your Uncle's
family frequently this winter. I've heard your Aunt Anna say that she
didn't at all like Miss Carr, and that she and all your family secretly
hoped that something would happen to prevent your marrying her. That
chimes right in with your saying that your father sent you here. I guess
you better speak your piece."
Philip gave his version of the previous night.
"Do you believe me?" he finished.
"Yes," said Mrs. Comstock.
"May I stay?"
"Oh, it looks all right for you, but what about her?"
"Nothing, so far as I am concerned. Her plans were all made to start to
Europe to-day. I suspect she is on the way by this time. Elnora is very
sensible, Mrs. Comstock. Hadn't you better let her decide this?"
"The final decision rests with her, of course," admitted Mrs. Comstock.
"But look you one thing! She's all I have. As Solomon says, 'she is the
one child, the only child of her mother.' I've suffered enough in this
world that I fight against any suffering which threatens her. So far
as I know you've always been a man, and you may stay. But if you bring
tears and heartache to her, don't have the assurance to think I'll bear
it tamely. I'll get right up and fight like a catamount, if things go
wrong for Elnora!"
"I have no doubt but you will," replied Philip, "and I don't blame you
in the least if you do.
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