"Our youngest child," said Lady Caroline. "Our ewe lamb!"
"Of course," replied Jack. "I see what you mean. What do you want me to do?"
"It may seem very hard," said Mr. Sellwood, "but we wish you to release Olivia from her engagement."
"To release her instantly!" cried Lady Caroline.
"I have done that already," said Jack with some disdain. "Did you really think, sir, that I should wait to be told?"
Mr. Sellwood muttered an oath as he held out his hand.
"I have made a mistake; I hope you will forgive me," he said; and his hand was crushed in its turn.
"And what did she say?" asked Lady Caroline.
"She refused to be released."
"I knew it! George, the girl is mad. And pray what do you propose to do now?"