“It is getting warmer, I do believe,” she said, rather listlessly. “I understand it is to be a very hot summer.” Then she added, “I’m to be married in July, Mrs. Cressler.”

Mrs. Cressler gasped, and sitting bolt upright stared for one breathless instant at Laura’s face, dimly visible in the darkness. Then, stupefied, she managed to vociferate:

“What! Laura! Married? My darling girl!”

“Yes,” answered Laura calmly. “In July⁠—or maybe sooner.”

“Why, I thought you had rejected Mr. Corthell. I thought that’s why he went away.”