Well," he took
the arms of the two young people, "I really think that we must
have a bottle of champagne on the strength of it."
Shortly the trio were seated at the table, and Braddock explained
that Mrs. Jasher, being overcome by his proposal, had not been
able to face the ordeal of congratulations.
"But she will come to-morrow," said he, as Cockatoo filled three
glasses.
"Indeed, I shall congratulate her to-night," said Lucy
obstinately. "As soon as dinner is over, I shall go with Archie
to her house, and tell her how pleased I am."
"It is very cold for you to be out, Lucy dear," urged Archie
anxiously.
"Oh, I can wrap up warmly," she answered.
Strange to say, the Professor made no objection to the excursion,
although Hope quite expected such a stickler for etiquette to
refuse permission to his step-daughter. But Braddock seemed
rather pleased than otherwise. His proposal of marriage seemed
to have put him into excellent humor, and he raised his glass
with a chuckle.
"I drink to your happiness, my dear Lucy, and to that of Mrs.
Jasher's."
"And I drink to Archie's and to yours, father," she replied. "I
am glad that you will not be lonely when we are married. Archie
and I wish to become one in January.
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