All these details Mrs.Dunn noted, made an entry in her mental memorandum-book, and underscored it for future reference.
If she discerned unpleasant possibilities in the situation, she did not allow them to disturb her outward serenity.

She kissed Caroline and called her "dear child" as fondly as usual, shook hands graciously with Captain Elisha, and bowed condescending recognition of Pearson.
"And how is the novel coming on?
Do tell me!" she begged.

"I'm sure we interrupted a reading.

It's too bad of us, really! But Malcolm insisted upon coming.

He has been very busy of late--some dreadful 'corner' or other on the exchange--and has neglected his friends--or thinks he has.
I told him I had explained it all to you, Caroline, but he _would_ come to-night.