If Elizabeth knew that I could tell her at any moment your exact
whereabouts, I think that she would be more angry with me than
ever she has been in her life, and, my dear," he added, "you
know, when Elizabeth is angry, things are apt to be unpleasant.
But I have been dumb. I have not spoken, nor shall I. Yet," the
professor went on, "you must not think, Beatrice, that because I
yield to your whim in this matter I recognize any sufficient
cause why you should voluntarily estrange yourself from those
whose right and privilege it is to look after you. You are able,
I am glad to see, to make your way in the world. I have attended
the Atlas Theatre, and I am glad to see that you have lost none
of your old skill in the song and dance. You are deservedly
popular there. Soon, I have no doubt, you will aspire to more
important parts. Still, my dear child," the professor continued,
disposing of his second cocktail, "I see no reason why your very
laudable desire to remain independent should be incompatible with
a life under your sister's roof and my protection. Mr. Tavernake
here, with his British instincts, will, I am sure, agree with me
that it is not well for a young lady--my own daughter, sir, but I
may say it--of considerable personal attractions, to live alone
or under the chaperonage merely of these other young ladies of
the theatre."
"I think,", Tavernake said, "that your daughter must have very
strong reasons for preferring to live alone.
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