“No,” warned Barnes, “I refuse to have it so.”
“Of circumstances,” added the aunt quickly.
“Which prompt us to every act,” threw in Barnes.
“Wise and unwise,” commented the aunt grimly.
Barnes allowed the matter to drop leaving Aunt Philomela with the last word which she accepted in an unmistakable spirit of victory.
The girl was all activity at once.
“We must show Mr. Barnes to Joe’s room and then supper will be ready,” she exclaimed.
As she met her aunt’s eyes she blushed with pretty embarrassment but she immediately tripped out of the room and soon returned with John.
“John,” she ordered. “You will make Mr. Joe’s room ready at once. You will follow him?” she asked, turning to Barnes.
It was neatly done. With a bow to Aunt Philomela, Barnes made his exit.