“Oh well, they'd turn her head here if it wasn't for me,” answered the other complacently.
Jewel was not late to lunch, but eating it tete-a-tete with aunt Madge was not to her taste.
Mrs. Evringham utilized the opportunity to admonish her, and Mrs. Forbes for once sympathized with the widow's sentiments.
Aunt Madge took off her eyeglasses in a way she had when she wished to be particularly impressive.
“Jewel,” she said, “I don't think any one has told you that it is impolite to Dr. Ballard to say anything about Christian Science in his presence.”
“Why is it?” asked the child.
“Because he is a learned physician, and has, of course, a great respect for his profession.”
“I have a great respect for him,” returned the child, “and he knows I wouldn't hurt his feelings.”
“The idea!” exclaimed Mrs. Evringham, looking down from a height upon the flaxen head. “As if a little ignorant girl could hurt the feelings of a man like Dr. Ballard!”
Mrs. Forbes also stared at the child, and she winced.