"My dear, if you would but be reasonable! Who spoke of grandeur? I simply wish the room to be made comfortable. In an hour or two I will take a look at it. A bed is easily put there, and—but I will see what is wanted. Pattie will not be here till late in the afternoon. I have promised to fetch her."
"As if she couldn't walk alone. What's the good of making a fine lady of her? Hasn't she got any furniture of her own? Why isn't it brought up out of the mine?"
"A few attempts have been made, but the things are so broken as to be almost useless."
"I suppose she can take her meals with the servants?"
"No, my dear. She will sit at table with us. I wish her to be one of ourselves. When you have learnt to know Pattie, you will feel as I do."
Mrs. Cragg tossed her head.
"Well, if she comes here, she ain't going to be idle. I shall give her something to do."
"I am sure Pattie would wish to be useful. But she must not have hard work."
Cragg thought he had said enough, and he made his escape. Busy as he was, he did not forget to take a look into the small room, and it was owing to him that, when he brought her that afternoon, the said little room wore a cosy and comfortable appearance. Pattie glanced round with pleased eyes.
"How nice! What a dear room! I shall like to sleep here," she said gratefully.