Magnus, without raising his head, gave a groan and wished they could.
"Well, we can," said Mrs. Kindred. "I can wait till late, or have it early, Magnus, just as suits you. What do you mean by sighing like that? What is in the way?"
"Regulations."
"Oh well!" said the mother, trying to smother her disappointment; "you have some other thing on hand? Never mind, dear, then we'll be together at breakfast."
"No, we sha'n't."
"Why not?"
"Regulations. We cannot have one single meal together while you are here, mammy."
And now, indeed, Mrs. Kindred had no more to say; the bands of red tape seemed to be winding all about her heart, and drawing very tight indeed. She had so pictured to herself the joy of once more handing her boy his cup of coffee. But it must be best for him, she said bravely to herself; or else they would not make such rules. And, whatever was best for him—
"What can you do, dear?" she said aloud, but with a plaintiveness that went to the boy's heart. He sat up and took her in his arms.