Even her evening costumes were characterized by quiet elegance;
but during the earlier hours of the day she dressed with a simplicity
that was almost severe, and yet with such good taste, such harmony
with herself, that the eye of the observer was always rested and
satisfied. Gentlemen who saw her would rarely fail to speak about her
afterward; few would ever mention her dress. Miss Wildmere affected
daintiness and style; Madge sought in the most quiet and modest way to
emphasize her own individuality. As far as possible she wished to be
valued for what she actually was. The very fact that there was so much
in her life that must be hidden led to a strong distaste for all that
was misleading in non-essentials.
"I am going to church with you to-day," said Graydon, "and I shall try
to behave."
"Try to! You cannot sit with me unless you promise to behave."
"That is the way to talk to men," said Mrs. Muir, who was completely
under her husband's thumb. "They like you all the better for showing
some spirit."
"I am not trying to make Graydon like me better, but only to insure
that he spends Sunday as should a good American."
"There is no longer any 'better' about my liking for Madge. It's all
best.
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