Drake apparently found no further interest in the subject, for he
began to talk of other matters. He had heard that Saunders was
expected to spend the day at his farm, and added to Mostyn: "I reckon
you will see 'im an' get news of business."

"I almost hope he won't mention it," the banker smiled. "I have
scarcely thought once of the bank. I never allow my mind to rest on it
when I am off for a change like this."

"Fine idea," Drake said, "but I don't see how you can help it,
'specially if you are concerned in the rise and fall of market-prices.
But I reckon you've got that down to a fine point."

Mostyn made some inconsequential response, but Drake's remark had
really turned his thoughts into other channels. After all, he
reflected, with a sudden chill of fear, how could he know but that
some of his investments were not so prosperous as when he had left
Atlanta? He became oblivious of the conversation going on around him.
He failed to hear the cautious dispute over some trifle between George
and Ann.

A little later, Mostyn was walking to and fro on the lawn in front of
the house when Dolly came down-stairs. She had on the pretty pink
dress he had admired so much the day she had tried it on for the first
time. He threw down his cigar and went to the steps to meet her, his
troubled thoughts taking wing at the sight of her animated face.

"Why have you not worn it before?" he said, sweeping her slender
figure from head to foot in open admiration.