"No, I couldn't, of course,—I mean I wouldn't! But James doesn't. I know he is not like that. I think he is a—good man," hesitating. "I am sure he wants to do right. People say such things."
"Only, if it were true."
"It isn't true! Who has been talking to you?"
"I've heard in one or two ways. Of course the servants in this house hear of things; you know they do."
"Mrs. Heavitree always liked me to keep to the nursery, and not to be in the kitchen."
"No, I know,—and I don't gossip, really—truly! I'm very little with any of the servants except Nurse. But of course I hear things sometimes; and when it came to your name and James Todd's being put together, I did ask to know more. They say it's such a pity, because he isn't one quarter good enough for you."
"I don't see that it is other people's business, if I think him good enough—"
"But if he drinks?"
"He doesn't. I know that is not true."
"You think so, but you don't really know. Marigold, you wouldn't go against father?"