And again an uncomfortable recollection of her father's angry departure from that house came over her. But whatever quarrels there might have been in those days, her aunt and uncle appeared to have forgotten all about them. Mr. Dormer-Smith told May more than once that he was pleased to see her.
"You're not a bit like your father, my dear," said he, with an approving air not altogether flattering to Augustus.
"Oh yes, Frederick!" interposed his wife. "There is a family expression."
"It's an expression I have never seen on your brother's face. No, nor any approach to it."
Mrs. Dormer-Smith laughed the soft little laugh which was habitual with her when embarrassed or disconcerted, and changed the conversation. "I hope you like your room, May?" she said.
"Oh yes, very much indeed, thank you, Aunt Pauline."
"I wish I could have come upstairs with you. But I am obliged to ménager my strength as much as possible."
"Are you not well, Aunt Pauline?" asked May with ready sympathy.
"I am not strong, dear."
"You would be better if you exerted yourself more," said Mr. Dormer-Smith. "Your system gets into a sluggish state from sheer inactivity."