"You're a bad man," said Meg indignantly; "I don't know a badder--not a bit like my Mr. Keith."

"Oh," sneered Fenton, "and who is Mr. Keith?"

"He is a very nice gentleman," replied Meg, pursing up her lips; "he stopped the wheels going over me."

"I wish he hadn't," muttered Fenton vindictively. "Meg, go and tell mother I want her right away."

"I sha'n't," retorted Meg obstinately; "you're a rude man."

"I'll make you smart," said Fenton, catching her arm.

"Oh, mumsey," cried the child, in a tone of relief, and Fenton turned just to see Kitty looking at him like an enraged tigress.

"You lay a finger on my child," she said viciously, "and I'll kill you!"

The American released his hold on Meg with an awkward laugh, and took a seat.

"Why don't you teach her manners," he growled.