"And you won't have her here? Then, by George, Electra, I will!"
Electra raised her eyebrows by the slightest possible space. It was involuntary, but the old lady saw it.
"You're quite right," she said ironically, "the house isn't mine."
"The house is yours to do exactly as you please with it," said Electra, with an instant justice instinct even with a dutiful warmth. "Any guest you invite is welcome. Only, grandmother, I must beg of you not to invite this particular person."
"Person! Electra, you make me mad. Be human; come, unbend a little. Take the poker out of your training. Do the decent thing, and ask her here, and then find out about her, and if she's a baggage, turn her out, neck and crop."
"I must refuse, grandmother," said Electra. "Now aren't you getting tired? I will bring your food."
Madam Fulton spoke with deliberate unction:—
"Perdition take my food!"