"You are jolly over it. Forgive me for letting it out. When you are married I'll do the same for you, Maud, as for Jeanie, if you'll let me."
Then the two girls went in, and Toney had to interview the Harrises and Captain Grant till it was time to go home. No Lewis met them to-day. Toney felt still more uncomfortable at having let the cat out of the bag, but admired the way Maud took it. So noble not to be the least jealous that Lewis had told her first, she thought, but very heavy-hearted herself she went to her study to work with Mr. Russell.
However, even business was exciting to-day, the plans for the new Home having come, and everything had to be looked into. Each inmate or couple were to have a bedroom and sitting-room, besides the joint dining-room and drawing-room, and though everything was to be simple, nothing was to be mean. Even Plantagenet Russell warmed up, but to herself she said, "I want Mr. Waycott's opinion, he always has good ideas, I must go and ask him--perhaps he wants to give all his time to Maud. Why is he going? I expect I've taken too much of his time." Mr. Russell interrupted her thoughts.
"Here is a letter from Mr. Staines, Miss Whitburn. He says you have been spending too much lately. Your parties and the Haven, and----"
"Isn't that like a lawyer, they never can bear your spending all your income; but it's better he should ruffle up a bit now, he'll have more provocation soon when the house begins. Now, Mr. Russell, telephone to the firm of Woods. Can they make a trousseau in four days?"
"Yes, perhaps I'd better hitch on myself. Hulloa, hulloa, hitch on to 4004. Miss Whitburn is on and is in a hurry."
When communication was established, Toney began,
"Send off same gentleman as before at once. Want first-class trousseau in four days."
"Oh, then hitch me on to someone who can. Why not multiply workers?" A pause and then the firm gave in.
"Very well, madam. Have things in stock which will help. Mr. Woods will be with you this evening."
"Thank you, very much. Must hurry up at times; couple can't wait."
Then Toney decided she must go to Waycott Hall to prepare Jeanie and Mrs. Hamilton, and the plans must be seen by Mr. Waycott. She called Trick, and not waiting for motor or horse dashed off across the park.