"What were you two whispering about?" asked Melanie, turning to Scarlett as her customers drifted off. "I couldn't help seeing that Mrs. Merriwether had her eye on you all the time and, dear, you know how she talks."
"Oh, the man's impossible—an ill-bred boor," said Scarlett. "And as for old lady Merriwether, let her talk. I'm sick of acting like a ninny, just for her benefit."
"Why, Scarlett!" cried Melanie, scandalized.
"Sh-sh," said Scarlett. "Dr. Meade is going to make another announcement."
The gathering quieted again as the doctor raised his voice, at first in thanks to the ladies who had so willingly given their jewelry.
"And now, ladies and gentlemen, I am going to propose a surprise—an innovation that may shock some of you, but I ask you to remember that all this is done for
