Yes, I know it's bean soup, but I don't want it, just the
same."
"Going on a hunger strike, Charlie?" inquired Doc Simpson.
"Sh! He's reducing," scolded Flora Grady.
"What's on your mind, Charlie?" asked Courtney.
Charlie swallowed hard. He made a determined effort and succeeded
in recovering some of his old-time sprightliness.
"Nothing, now that I've got my hat off."
"Have you heard the latest news, Charlie?" inquired Mrs. Pollock,
a thrill of excitement in her voice.
He started, and looked up quickly. "There's been so blamed much
news lately," he muttered, "I can't keep track of it."
"Well, this is the greatest piece of news we've had in ages," said
the poetess. "Wedding bells are to ring in our midst. Somebody you
know very well is going to be married."
Mr. Webster's heart went to his boots. He stared open-mouthed at
the speaker.
"Oh, my Lord!" he almost groaned. "Don't tell me she has promised
to marry--" He broke off to glare venomously at Thane.
"Don't blame me for it, Charlie," exclaimed the latter. "I am as
innocent as an unborn babe. Charge it to woman's wiles." He laughed
boisterously, unnaturally.
Mr. Pollock spoke. "The next issue of the Sun will contain
the formal announcement of the engagement of the most popular and
beloved young lady in Windomville. No doubt it will be old news by
that time,--next Thursday,--but publication in the press gives it
the importance of officialty.
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