neither wished to fight or be fought for, particularly in such a petty
domestic war. One of the many advantages among the many
disadvantages of a girlhood almost entirely removed from the society
of women was that it had saved her from women's smallnesses.
Besides, her nature itself was large, like her person--large, and
bounteous, and sweet; it refused to take in those petty motives which
disturb petty minds. Life to her was a grand romantic drama,--perhaps,
alas! a tragedy--but it never could be made into a genteel comedy, with
childish intrigues, Liliputian battles, tempests in teapots, or thunders
made upon kettle-drums.

Thus, concluding the temporary storm was over, and almost forgetting
it at the half-hour's end, she called cheerfully to the children to get
ready for a walk with her this sunshiny morning.

Miss Gascoigne rose, her black eyes flashing: "Children, you will not
leave the house. You will walk with nobody but your own proper
nurse. It was your poor mamma's custom and, though she is dead, her
wishes shall be carried out, at least so long as I am alive."

Christian stood utterly amazed. Her intention had been so harmless;
she had thought the walk good for the children, and perhaps good for
herself to have their company. She had meant to take them out with her
the first available day, and begin a regular series of rambles, which
perhaps might win their little hearts toward her, for they still kept aloof
and shy; and now all her pleasant plans were set aside.

And there the children stood, half frightened, half amused, watching the
conflict of authority between their elders. One thing was clear. There
must be no bringing them into the contest. Christian saw that, and with