"And that's none of your business! I'm as good as you are,—this minute!"
"I didn't say you weren't! It isn't a question of goodness. You may be a saint on earth compared to me, but you don't know how to behave in decent society,—or didn't, till Patty took you in hand."
"She invited me to visit her! I didn't ask her to have me!"
"Yes, because she wanted to be kind to her husband's people, and you seemed to be the only one available."
"Well, I was. And as I'm Cousin William's only relative, I have a right to visit him as long as I please."
"I don't deny that, Azalea," and Elise couldn't help laughing at the defiant air of the speaker. "I'm not disputing your right to be here. But I do deny your right to say anything whatever against Patty, who is trying her best to do all she can for your pleasure and for your good."
"That's so," and Azalea's manner suddenly changed. "Patty is a dear, and I love her. And that baby! Oh!"
"How crazy you are over that child," Elise exclaimed. "She is a dear baby, but I don't see why you idolise her so."
"Oh, I love babies, and Fleurette is so sweet and soft and cuddly! I love to have her all to myself,—but Patty won't let me."
"I don't wonder! Where did you go with her that day, Azalea?"