The Grit-advocate., 1905-02-03
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 Marians 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 trifle ir
ritating socially. especially when
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 a 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.
brary 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
friend. He was in the midst of an
interesting story when he felt a sud
den unpleasant conviction that some
thing was wrong and he pulled out his
watch. Then he stepped quickly into
the hall
''It's almost 8, dear" he said. The
affectionate form of address gave the
episode almost domestic flavor and
allayed his sense of irritation for a
moment
Yes" l know" said the voice back
OF Marian's transom. IN be ready in
minute"
Reynolds returned to the library.
But now he sat with watch in his
hand while Marian's minute stretched
ont 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
moment Reynolds replied, stiH1y:
Very well. then, We'll go at once"
Reynolds takes strong interest in
the wardrobe of his fiancee, and had
aided in selecting the material of the
garment which was now making it's
first appearance. Marians apparent
Indifference to his opinion hurt his
feelings. He resolved that if she
wanted to know whether he liked the
gown CT not she would have to ask
: him.
The first number of the program
was just being concluded when they
reached the concert hall and 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 feel a draLght," she said.
DO you? I wish I could" Rev
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 Norris chair for comfort
able talk, while Marian sat down near
MIN, still wearing her hat and Jacket.
Wont you take off your things and
stop awhiie?' he asked, jokingly
To his establishment the color rose
In her cheeks and she did not answer
for moment. When she spoke it
was to say falteringly, I'm very com
Portable"
The hint was unmistakable. Rev
molds rose to his feet pale with anger.
II 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.
II you should ever feel that it would |
be possible for you to tolerate my So |
ciety again. should be pleased to |
have you let me know" He took one
step toward the door, then stopped,
for Marian was in tears.
81 never knew any one so horrid and
50 stupid she walled. This dread
fN dress buttons in the back.