"You're quite right. But, Miss MacDonald, there is something else. I--er--should like to give you a little--wedding gift, since you honored me with the news of your approaching--mm-m--marriage. As an old neighbor, and one of your most sincere admirers, who would feel greatly honored by your friendship, I--should like to have you accept this--" He held something out to Billy Louise and pulled open the door for instant escape. "Good night, Miss MacDonald. I think it will storm." Then he was gone, hurrying down the narrow path with long strides, his tall figure bent to the wind, his coat napping around his lean legs.
Billy Louise closed the door and her half-open mouth and let down her lifted eyelids. Standing with her back against the wall, she turned that something--an envelope--over twice, then tore off the end and pulled out the contents. It was the note she and Marthy had signed no longer than an hour ago, and written large across the face of it were the words: "Paid, Samuel Seabeck."
"The--old--darling!" said Billy Louise under her breath and went straight in to show it to Marthy.