"I wouldn't live with grandpapa for all the world!" began Patricia.
"There, children!" exclaimed their father; "we will not discuss the matter. Mr. Floyd feels sure he is right, and I am very sorry it should have happened, though I can't see that any of you were out of the way—"
"I knew Ralston cared a great deal for Marian," said Louis, "and I never imagined that old Mr. Greaves would stand in the way. Do you suppose he would if he knew it? And I admire Ralston bearding the lion in his den. It's a shame that poor Polly should have to suffer, but I hope she will be spunky and not give in."
"Do you mean to make us marry whoever you like?" Patty edged up to her father and raised a saucy face with laughing eyes.
"You will find me terrible when you reach that period," declared their father. "At present there are enough things for you to consider and learn about without taking up marriage."
"Do you suppose grandpapa is in real earnest? He looked very resolute, didn't he? I've seen him angry with the slaves, and I shouldn't like to belong to him, I really shouldn't. And do you think he actually doesn't want any of us to come up—"
"Not at present. I trust the matter will blow over. Marian will give in after a while and, no doubt, be very comfortable. Ask your mother if she is sorry. I know little Annis wants to go back to Kentucky," and he pinched the child's cheek.
"You'll have to go alone," declared Louis.
"But I can't go alone; I should get lost. And I don't want to go away from you all."
Mrs. Mason flushed and smiled at the raillery.