"The miserable wretch!" cried Mrs. Willoughby, indignantly.

"No, he isn't--he isn't that," said Minnie. "He isn't a miserable
wretch at all."

"How could any one be so base who pretends to the name of gentleman!"
cried Mrs. Willoughby.

"He wasn't base--and it's very wicked of you, Kitty. He only
pretended, you know."

"Pretended!"

"Yes."

"Pretended what?"

"Why, that he was my---my father, you know."

"Does Ethel know this?" asked Mrs. Willoughby, after a curious look at
Minnie.

"No, of course not, nor Dowdy either; and you mustn't go and make any
disturbance."

"Disturbance? no; but if I ever see him, I'll let him know what I
think of him," said Mrs. Willoughby, severely.

"But he saved my life, and so you know you can't be _very_ harsh with
him. Please don't--ple-e-e-ease now, Kitty darling."