Selina is such a strange woman
and keeps such strange company that she won't end in the usual
way. You may be sure of that. But, after all, if she does
die, you will come in for her money and then, can marry
Cuthbert Mallow."
Juliet shuddered. "I hope Aunt Selina will live for many a
long day, if that is what you think," she said sharply. "I
want none of her money. Cuthbert has money of his own, and
his uncle is rich also."
"I really hope Cuthbert has enough to justify him gambling."
"He does not gamble," said Juliet quickly.
"Yes he does," insisted Mrs. Octagon. "I have heard rumors;
it is but right you should hear about--"
"I want to hear nothing. I thought you liked Cuthbert."
"I do, and he is a good match. But I should like to see you
accept the Poet Arkwright, who will yet be the Shakespeare of
England."
"England has quite enough glory with the Shakespeare she has,"
rejoined Juliet tartly, "and as to Mr. Arkwright, I wouldn't
marry him if he had a million. A silly, ugly, weak--"
"Stop!" cried Mrs. Octagon, rising majestically from her
throne. "Do not malign genius, lest the gods strike you dumb.
Child--"
What Mrs. Octagon was about to say further must remain ever a
mystery, for it was at this moment that her husband hurried
into the room with an evening paper in his hand. "My dear,"
he said, his scanty hair almost standing on end with horror,
"such dreadful news. Your aunt, Juliet, my dear--"
"Selina," said Mrs.
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