The Argosy — page 308: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

A Little Maid, an Old Matd and the Major. 287 Uncle Henry was generous by nature, and Aunt Mary so by imita- tion ; a disposition of things that resulted in tips and sugar plums. ‘Glad to see you again, Maud. We thought your holiday was going to last for ever, child,” cried Mrs. Bowen, as, with a chirpy laugh, she subsided into a seat. Dr. Bowen settled himself as easily as his gout would allow, stroked his grizzled beard and turned his shrewd, good-natured eyes on his eldest niece. ‘‘ What news, young womanPe Was the visit to town a success? Did you pick up an admirer ?” Where I am concerned, Uncle Henry, your sole idea is an admirer. I shall have to set one up to please you,” said Maud good- humouredly. ‘They are not always to be had for the seeking, my dear, and therefore must not be despised when found. Painting screens and tables is all very well, but a good husband and a comfortable home are better. What’s this I hear about your refusing the young doctor?” ‘Oh, Aunt Hester!” exclaimed Maud, as she glanced reproach- fully towards that guilty person. Don’t attack Aunt Hester. It was natural she should tell me. And of course I told Uncle Henry,” said Mrs. Bowen. ‘And we are come to have it out with you, Maudie, girl,” con- tinued the doctor. ‘‘ Be sensible, my child, and think twice before you throw away such a chance.” ** But I don’t like him,” said Maud. “ Oh, indeed! He has red hair, perhaps? or doesn’t play the guitar? I have only seen him once, but he struck me as a tall, well-enough-looking fellow; and I hear he is good at his profession. What more do you require?” urged the old gentleman more seriously. ‘*Perhaps Maud is waiting for a duke,” suggested Aunt Mary. “Bob and I want her to marry Major Murdoch,” suddenly inter- posed Effie’s fresh, childish treble. A pause of amazement: a violent blush from Maud: a loud laugh from Dr. Bowen and his wife. Murdoch? Poor Arthur Murdoch? Marry a Greenwich pen- sioner at once, child! You would be just as well set up!” exclaimed Uncle Henry. : “Hffie’s a naughty child,” said Mrs. Sherlock, in mild horror. ‘“* How could Maud think of marrying a person she has never seen ?” *“T cannot understand why Major Murdoch’s name should be introduced into our conversation,” exclaimed Maud. She spoke with a certain vehemence unusual to her, and the colour rose hotly in her cheeks. ‘* Hoity-toity !” commented Mrs. Bowen, while Bobby exclaimed : “Well, you needn’t be cross! Miss Dodson says you write to him.” connicloooks (C(O)