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"I was afraid of that," Daddy said after he sucked in his breath and held it ato be devastated"

"He told her he would gladly pay any bills youout of the ," I added quickly so he wouldn't wonder if there was any chance of reconsideration

"She did what? Threw it out the ? Did they find it?"

"No," I said

"My God That ring orth twenty-five thousand dollars, Olivia McGil was bragging about it to me just the other day'

"That's Belinda," I said and shrugged

"She's a madwoman We'll never find anyone for her now, not after that story gets out"

"Maybe not, Daddy," I said "Maybe we'll have to face that fact and do the best we can"

"Yes," he said "Perhaps so" He stared down at his desk and then he raised his tired, sad eyes at y toward your well-being, Olivia I'll have a better chance at success"

"I'll be fine, Daddy"

"I know you will That's lect you because she's a failure in every way and in everything I try to arrange for her"

He rose

"I guess I'll have to go up and break the news to yourif she's still asleep," he said

"You probably should anyway, Daddy Give her a chance to get a good night's sleep so she can recuperate from that stomach problem"

"Yes Yes, you're right again, Olivia"