strangers. She explained as much of this to the girls as she
thought proper, and ended the matter by making them understand
that Captain Cuttwater was to be received.

On the Saturday after this the three scions of the Civil Service
were all at Surbiton Cottage, and it will show how far Charley
had then made good his ground, to state that the coming of the
captain was debated in his presence.

'And when is the great man to be here?' said Norman.

'At once, I believe,' said Mrs. Woodward; 'that is, perhaps,
before the end of this week, and certainly before the end of
next.'

'And what is he like?' said Alaric.

'Why, he has a tail hanging down behind, like a cat or a dog,'
said Katie.

'Hold your tongue, miss,' said Gertrude. 'As he is to come he
must be treated with respect; but it is a great bore. To me it
will destroy all the pleasures of life.'

'Nonsense, Gertrude,' said Mrs. Woodward; 'it is almost wicked of
you to say so. Destroy all the pleasure of life to have an old
gentleman live in the same house with you!--you ought to be more
moderate, my dear, in what you say.'

'That's all very well, mamma,' said Gertrude, 'but you know you