‘Ah!’ said Violet, perceiving something was amiss, ‘they have spared you to me a long time already.’
‘Don’t be uneasy,’ said Theodora; ‘I’ll settle it.’
‘But,’ exclaimed Violet, ‘I could not bear that you should be with me if they want you.’
‘That is not it; papa has something in his head; I will settle it.’
Violet knew what was indicated by the over-erectness of Theodora’s head. To be the cause of family discussion was frightful, but she had a nervous dread of thwarting Theodora.
‘I wish you would not look at me,’ exclaimed Theodora.
‘I beg your pardon,’ sighed she.
‘What’s the use of that when I know you are not satisfied, and do not trust me?’
‘Don’t be angry with me,’ implored Violet, with a quivering voice, and tears of weakness in her eyes. ‘I cannot help it. I do not want to interfere, but as it is for me, I must beg you to tell me you are not pressing to stay with me when Lady Martindale wishes for you.’
‘No one ever wants me. No, but papa thinks that you and I cannot be trusted together. He says he cannot leave me with one who has so little authority.’