"I don't know," said Barbara, looking up; "I never counted the number of times; you always hear when he has been."
"I wish you'd do something for me, Barbara," said Frank.
"Well, what is it?"
"Just tell Lyster it would be better if he could contrive to call when I'm at home."
"Why?" asked Barbara pointedly.
"Why--well--upon my word--I scarcely know why--except that people talk, you know; and it's better--eh? don't you think?" stammered Frank. He had acted on impulse again, and felt confoundedly ashamed of himself.
"I distinctly decline to do any thing of the sort. I wonder Frank, you're not ashamed to propose such a thing to me; but I can see what influence has been at work."
"There has been no influence at all; only I choose--"
"And I choose that you should find a fitter person than your wife to deliver insulting messages to your friends!"
"Barbara suppose I were to insist upon your not receiving this man again?"