At the Time Appointed - Page 133/224

"Papa, you can depend on me not to make myself conspicuous in any way,"

Kate replied, with dignity. "What I have said to-night was said simply

to let you and Mr. Walcott know just where I stand, and just what you

may, and may not, expect of me; but this is only between us three, and

you can rest assured that I shall never wear my heart upon my sleeve or

take the public into my confidence regarding my home life."

"I think myself you need have no fear on that score, Mr. Underwood,"

Walcott remarked, with a smile of amusement; "I believe Miss Underwood

is entirely capable of carrying out to perfection any rôle she may

assume, and if she chooses to take the part of leading lady in the

little comedy of 'The Model Husband and Wife, I shall be only too

delighted to render her any assistance within my power."

As Walcott bade Kate good-night at a late hour he inquired, "What do you

think of the little comedy I suggested to-night for our future line of

action? Does it meet with your approval?"

She was quick to catch the significance of the question, and, looking

him straight in the eyes, she replied, calmly,-"It will answer as well as any, I suppose; but it has in it more of the

elements of tragedy than of comedy."