“Still with the best intentions in the world.”
“That does not excuse such knavery,” she protested.
The girl broke in,
“Aunt, if you’ll calm yourself and listen a moment. You are unkind to one who has made so generous an offer—”
“Bah,” interrupted Aunt Philomela, “it is too generous.”
Barnes made no reply.
“I must ask Mr.—”
“Barnes,” he supplied as she hesitated.
“To withdraw at once.”
Barnes accepted the decision with equanimity. He reached for his portfolio. But he was beginning to like this little old lady.