to bring her out suitably at Babington House last year. The father had
cordially approved, and joined in the sacrifices, which included an
expenditure which he would not have thought conceivable. The result was,
of course, that Marjorie, under cover of a very real dutifulness, ruled
both her parents completely; her mother acknowledged the dominion, at
least, to herself and her husband; her father pretended that he did
not; and on this occasion rose, perhaps, nearer to repudiating it than
ever in his life. It seemed to him unbearable to be bidden by his
daughter, though with the utmost courtesy and affection, to mind his own
business.

So he sat and breathed audibly through his nose, and meditated
rebellion.

* * * * *

"And is the lad to come here for Easter?" he asked at last.

"I suppose so."

"And for how long?"

"So long as the maid appoints."

He breathed louder than ever.

"And, Mr. Manners," continued his wife emphatically, "no word must be
said to him on the matter. The maid is very plain as to that.... Oh! we
must let her have her way."