said Valancy, with a wicked smile.

“Have you no pride?” demanded Aunt Wellington.

“Lots of it. I am proud that I have achieved a husband by my own unaided efforts. Cousin Georgiana here wanted to help me to Edward Beck.”

“Edward Beck is worth twenty thousand dollars and has the finest house between here and Port Lawrence,” said Uncle Benjamin.

“That sounds very fine,” said Valancy scornfully, “but it isn’t worth that” — she snapped her fingers — ”compared to feeling Barney’s arms around me and his cheek against mine.”

“Oh, Doss!” said Cousin Stickles. Cousin Sarah said, “Oh, Doss!”