She spoke with so much firmness and decision that her mother could only look at her in wondering surprise. "What has come to you, Audrey, that you should thus seek to disobey me?"
"I do not wish to disobey thee, mother dear," said Audrey. "But I am old enough to judge for myself in some things, and feel sure I am wanted here, for I can be of use to my aunt, while there is nothing for me to do at home. And the fine ladies who come to see you do not want me."
"But these Quaker children? You forget them, Audrey," said her mother. "I am willing to let you stay with your aunt, but they must go away."
"No, no, mother dear; I am sure thee would not wish such a thing. Think how cold it is. You would not turn them into the street to starve?"
"Of course not; but someone else might take them."
"Would you give them a home?" asked Audrey.
Her mother looked shocked at the suggestion.
"What wild things you think of, Audrey!" she said in a tone of vexation.
"Then if you will not take them, why should you think other people would like to do it? God told aunt to take them when they first came here, and, of course, He knows all the trouble, and will provide for it and for them."
Madam Lowe was a Christian woman, and had taught her daughter these very truths, so that her arguments were turned against herself, and at last she had reluctantly to consent that Audrey should remain here for a few days at least. "You cannot stay long, of course, for you will be eating the bread that they will need, and I am sure your father will not consent to help in the nourishing of Quakers."