Unless you are
with me I won't be in New York again for weeks."
"I should have thought you'd be back at the Groves's tomorrow. It's
more amusing there, I don't doubt; but, after all, you are married to
me."
"Good heavens, Fanny," he protested, "what is this about? You're really
cutting with the Groves--two excessively nice people who were decent to
me."
"You are such an idiot," she declared, in a warmer voice. "Can't you
see how disappointed I was? First I had everything laid out on the bed,
my best nightgowns and lace stockings, for the trip; then I couldn't
go; and I arranged the party so carefully for you, Gregory had a
practice piece ready for you to hear, and--and nothing. I wonder if any
other man is as selfish as you?'
"Maybe not," he returned peaceably. "What happened was unavoidable. It
was a social necessity, decided for me. I couldn't just run into the
house and out again. But there is no need to explain further." He left
the table, for a cigar, and returned. "You have on a new dress!"
"I ought to be complimented," she admitted, "but I am not; it's only
the black velvet with the fulness taken out and a new ruffle. Clothes
are so expensive that I wanted to save. It isn't French, either.
Perhaps you'll remember that you said the new length didn't become me.
No, you're not the idiot--I am: I must stop considering and trying to
please you at every turn.
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