quick succession and power, till she reached the
door. Mr. Bellmont and Aunt Abby, hearing the
noise, rushed in, just in time to see the last of
the performance. Nig jumped up, and rushed
from the house, out of sight.

Aunt Abby returned to her apartment, fol-
lowed by John, who was muttering to himself.

"What were you saying?" asked Aunt Abby.

"I said I hoped the child never would come
into the house again."

"What would become of her? You cannot
mean THAT," continued his sister.

"I do mean it. The child does as much work
as a woman ought to; and just see how she is
kicked about!"

"Why do you have it so, John?" asked his
sister.

"How am I to help it? Women rule the
earth, and all in it."

"I think I should rule my own house, John,"--

"And live in hell meantime," added Mr.