Anne was struck dumb at this fearful display of worldliness; and Cecil betook herself to the piano, but the moment her husband appeared she showed him the list.
“He has cut out plenty of work,” said Raymond, “but three of them must want a field for their energies.”
“It is preposterous. I want you to speak to him about it.”
“You are not expected to go to them all,” Raymond made answer.
“Then there’s no sense in having them,” responded Cecil. “Evening services are very bad for the people, bringing them out late. You ought to tell him so.”
“He is Rector, and I am not,” said Raymond.
“Mr. Venn did nothing without papa’s consent,” exclaimed
“My dear Cecil, don’t let your loyalty make a Harry the Eighth of your father,” said Raymond; “the clergyman ought to be a free agent.”
“You don’t approve?”
“I don’t approve or disapprove. It is not a matter I know anything about.”