you'd let me, but I shan't speak to you again or receive you at all
unless you promise not to repeat that nonsense about marrying. I know
how horridly obstinate you are! Please remember it's out of the
question.'

At this moment the servant brought in a letter to Mrs Raymond. As she
read it, Cecil thought she changed colour.

'It's only a line from Sir Charles Cannon,' she said.

'What's he writing about?'

'Really, Cecil! What right have you to ask? I certainly shan't say. It's
about his ward, if you must know. And now I think you'd better go, if
you will make these violent scenes.'

He stood up.

'You must let me come soon again,' he said rather dejectedly. 'I'll try
not to come tomorrow. Shall I?'

'Yes, do try--not to come, I mean. And will you do everything I tell
you?'

'I suppose it will please you if I dine with Hyacinth Verney this
evening? She asked me yesterday. I said I was half-engaged, but would
let her know.'

'Yes, it _would_ please me very much indeed,' said Mrs Raymond. 'Please
do it, and try to know her better. She's sweet. I don't know her, but--'