All his doubts came flooding back, and his terrors--for, in some of its aspects, the idea of being married to this delicate flower of conventionality and gentle breeding was literally a terror to him.

If he went he would be still further committing himself; all Washington would soon know of the journey in the carriage of Madam Bowker, the most imposing car of state that appeared in the streets of the Capital, a vast, lofty affair, drawn by magnificent horses, the coachman and footman in costly, quiet livery, high ensconced.
"No, thanks," said Josh, in his most bustlingly-bounderish manner.

"Tell the old lady I'm up to my neck in work." Mr.Whitesides was taken aback, but he was far too polished a gentleman to show it.

"Perhaps later ?" he suggested.
"I've promised Margaret to go out there later.

If I get through here in time I'll look in on Mrs.Bowker on the way.