"How much time, mother? Will until to-morrow morning do? It must, little mother, because I promised to carry your consent back with me! Indeed, I did, mother!" exclaimed the impatient boy.
Mrs. Rocke dropped her head upon her hand, as was her custom when in deep thought. Presently she said:
"Travy, I'm afraid this is not a genuine offer of a situation of housekeeper! I'm afraid that it is only a ruse to cover a scheme of benevolence! and that they don't really want me, and I should only be in their way."
"Now, mother, I do assure you, they do want you! Think of that young girl and elderly gentleman! Can either of them take charge of a large establishment like that of Willow Heights?"
"Well argued, Traverse; but granting that they need a housekeeper, how do I know I would suit them?"
"Why, you may take their own words for that, mother!"
"But how can they know? I am afraid they would be disappointed!"
"Wait until they complain, mother!"
"I don't believe they ever would!"
"I don't believe they ever would have cause!"