Bertha tried to explain by saying, "Her pride is of family descent."
"I suppose she don't trace back further than Adam, does she? And we all do about that," was the answer.
Here the conversation was interrupted. Bertha was summoned to receive visitors.
The instant Maurice returned his grandmother attacked him. "Maurice, that woman's presence here is insupportable; there is no use of argument on the subject; I have made up my mind,—go and dismiss her at once, and seek somebody else!"
May not Maurice be pardoned for losing his temper and answering with considerable irritation,—"Have I not clearly explained to you, madame, that I cannot do anything of the kind? I have engaged her for a month, and I cannot turn her away without a good reason; here she must remain until the time expires."
"Pay her double her wages, and let her go!" urged the countess.
"Once more, and for the last time," cried Maurice, determinedly, "I tell you, I cannot and will not!"
"Then send her to me!" answered the countess.
Maurice did not stir; she repeated, in a more commanding voice, "Send her to me, I say!"