There, I'm cool now. Good-night."
"Very cool, Madge."
He lighted a cigar and continued his walk, more perturbed than he
cared to admit even to himself. Indeed, he found that he was decidedly
annoyed, and there seemed no earthly reason why there should have been
any occasion for such vexation. Of course he was glad that Madge had
become strong and beautiful. This would have added a complete charm to
their old relations. Why must she also become a mystery, or, rather,
seek to appear one? Well, there was no necessity for solving the
mystery, granting its existence. "Possibly she would prefer a
flirtation to fraternal regard; possibly--Oh, confound it! I don't
know what to think, and don't much care. She is trying to become a
woman! Who can fathom some women's whims and fancies? She thinks her
immature ideas, imbibed in an out-of-the-way corner of the world,
the immutable laws of nature. Of one thing at least she is absolutely
certain--she can get on without me. I must be kept at too great a
distance to be officious."
This point settled, his own course became clear. He would be courtesy
itself and mind his own business.
"I fear I shall fail," murmured poor Madge, hiding her face in her
pillow, while suppressed sobs shook her frame.
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