And Harebell said quickly:

"I shouldn't think so!"

When they reached the Rectory, Harebell said good-bye. She kissed Nan, but turned her back on Peter.

"Remember!" he called after her threateningly.

"You needn't be afraid!" she retorted.

But she entered her aunt's house with a sinking heart.

[CHAPTER IX]

IN DISGRACE

HAREBELL had her tea in the schoolroom alone, as she very often did. Andy waited upon her.

"There be visitors in the drawin'-room," he said. "'Tis like old times, gentlemen a-comin' here! For years we've had nothing but ladies, and a few on them. Sir Robert Ferguson and his lady have been to tea, and the Colonel be quite spry. What have you been a-doin' to-day? Somethin' to get a scoldin' for! Mistress says to me, 'Tell Miss Harebell to go to her bedroom after she has finished her tea, and stay there till I come to her.'