looked back.

"I see your household is in a very chaotic state, Cousin Horatio. Still
I will remain a few days," with extreme condescension, "on condition
that these Peppers are not thrust upon my attention."

"I make no conditions," said the old gentleman coolly. "If you stay, you
must accept my household as you find it."

"Come, Marian," said Mrs. Chatterton, holding out her hand to Mrs.
Whitney. "You may help me to my apartments if you like. I am quite
unstrung by all this," and she swept out without a backward glance.

"Has she gone?" cried Jasper, hurrying in with Polly running after.
"It's 'stay,' isn't it, father?" as he saw the old gentleman's face.

"Yes," said Mr. King grimly, "it is 'stay' indeed, Jasper."

"Well, now then, you've a piece of work on your hands about the biggest
you ever did yet, Polly Pepper!" cried Jasper, "to make things
comfortable in this house. I shall be just as cross as can be imagined,
to begin with."

"You cross!" cried Polly.

"Cross as a bear; Marian will fight against the prevailing ill wind, but
it will finally blow her down to a state of depression where her best
friend wouldn't recognize her, and"--

"You don't mention me, my boy," said Mr. King dryly.