"I know he means to do it again!" sobbed Gracie. "I know he does!"
"He shall not!" said Avery.
And with the words she put the child from her, rose, and with great determination walked out of the room.
Mr. Lorimer had scarcely settled himself in what he called his "chair of ease" in the study when her low knock reached him, and she entered. Her grey eyes were no longer angry, but very resolute. She closed the door softly, and came straight to the fire.
"Mr. Lorimer," she said, her voice pitched very low, "I want you to be patient with me just for a minute. Will you?"
Mr. Lorimer sighed again. "I am yearning for the refreshment of a little solitary meditation, Mrs. Denys," he said.
"I shall not keep you," Avery rejoined steadily. She stood before him, very pale but wholly composed. "What I have to say can be said in a very few seconds. First, with regard to Gracie; the child is so upset that I think any further punishment would make her downright ill."
"Pooh, my dear Mrs. Denys!" said the Reverend Stephen.
Avery paused a moment. "Will you try to listen to me with an open mind?" she said.
"I am listening," said Mr. Lorimer.