“Undoubtedly,” observed her husband. “You can see a striking example of the advantageous results of self-will in our daughter Hazel, Bertha.”
Mrs. Tregaskis, who never made any reference to that side of Hazel’s marriage which was oftenest in her thoughts, flushed her heavy infrequent red and remained silent.
Miss Blandflower looked frightened.
“I am afraid the day will come,” she remarked courageously, “when Hazel, as well as poor dear little Frances, will wish she hadn’t taken her own way and ... and flown in the face——” Her voice trailed away feebly.
Lady Marleswood had become yearly more radiantly prosperous and happy since her marriage, but Minnie still clung faithfully to the thought of the day that would come, even while rejoicing admiringly at the occasional glimpses vouchsafed to Porthlew of Hazel and her happiness.
Bertha Tregaskis broke the silence abruptly.
“Did you give her my message about her money affairs, Rosamund, and what does she want to do?”
“She said she would have to make a will after she comes of age, when she takes her vows. It seems to be quite a usual thing for nuns to do.”
“I dare say,” snorted Frederick. “Supervised by the Mother Superior, I presume?”
“I suppose so,” said his wife shortly. “I don’t imagine they’ll turn up their noses at three hundred a year.”