The Elbert County tribune., 1905-02-02
Their
First Quarrel

They had their first quarrel the
! other day, and they are sure that 1t Is
the last though that remains to be
seen. Their course of true love has
been very smooth, thus far, which is
doubtless due to Marian's tactful way
of avoiding conflicts with Reynolds
prejudices.
Punctuality. for instance, is fad
with Reynolds, and however admirable
this may be from business point of
view it is likely to become a trife ir-
ritaing socially, especially when a
man insists that other people shall
measure up to his standard.
They were to attend concert which
both had been anticipating with espe-
cial pleasure. Reynolds went early to
Marian's home, as was his custom,
and when he mounted to the third fiat
he found the door Hospitality ajar
Come in." called voice which Rey-
nolds is in duty bound to consider the
sweetest on earth. I'm not quite
ready yet"
Reynolds seated himself In the H.
orary and took up one of the late
magazines. The fiat was very still.
and he remembered that the family,
with the exception of Marian, had ac-
cepted dinner invitation from a
friend He was in the midst of an
interesting story when he felt sud-
den unpleasant conviction that some
thing was wrong and he pulled out his
watch. Then he stepped quickly into
the hall.
Its almost s, dear" he said. The
affectionate form of address gave the
episode almost domestic flavor and
allayed his sense of irritation for a
moment.
Yes know" said the voice back
of Marian's transom. I'm be ready in
a minute"
Reynolds returned to the library.
But now he sat with watch in his
hand, while Marian's minute stretched
.out to five, and then to ten. Reynolds
was meditating another reminder
when she made her appearance, ready
even to her hat and jacket
why, you've got on the new gown.
Slip off your jacket and let me see
how it looks"
I'm afraid it's too late for that"
Marian answered in haste. After a
moment Reynolds replied, stiff,y:
Very we'll, then, well go at once"
Reynolds takes strong interest in
the wardrobe of his fancee, and had
aided in selecting the material of the
garment which was now making its
first appearance. Marian's apparent
indifference to his opinion hurt his
feelings. He resolved that il she
wnnted to know whether he liked the
gown or not she would have to ask
him
The first number of the program
was just being concluded when they
reached the concert hall and a perspir.
ing usher conducted them to their
seats. "Abominably hot and close.
isn't it?" said Reynolds, leaning to-
ward Marian to assist her in removing
her jacket. To his amozement she
drew away. I'm going to keep it on"
she explained.
Not your jacket in this sitting
hall?" Reynolds stared at her In
credulously. and Marian looked miser-
able and defiant.
Il think l feel draught," she said.
do you? wish l could" Rey-
nolds was beginning to feel decidedly
out Of sorts. He hardly knew his
Marian in this creature OF whims.
But the climax came when they
reached home. The family had not
returned, and Reynolds settled him
self in the Morris chair for a comfort
able talk, while Marian sat down near
him. still wearing her hat and Jacket.
Won't you take off your things and
stop awhile?" he asked, Jokingly.
To his establishment the color rose
in her cheeks and she did not answer
for a moment. When she spoke 1t
was to say, falteringly. I'm very com
Portable"
The hint was unmistakable. Rev
molds rose to his feet pale with anger.
Il suppose you mean that am not to
prolong my stay" he said. 81 seem to
have been unfortunate In trying to
give you little pleasure this evening.
If you should ever feel that 1t would
be possible for you to tolerate my So
ciety again, l sh,uld be pleased to
have you let me know" He took one
step toward the door, then stopped,
for Marian was in tears.
Il never knew any one so horrid and
so stupid" she walled. "This dread
la dress buttons in the back. I