When Maggie went downstairs, she found her father in the drawing-room.
“The train was a little late to-night. Has Willy come back from Brighton?”
“Yes, father.”
“I've been looking over his accounts and I find he has lost nearly two thousand pounds in Bond Street, and I don't think he is doing any good with that agency in Brighton. I never approved of one or the other. I approve of nothing but legitimate city business. Shops in the West End! mere gambling. Where is Grace?”
“She's in her room.”
“In her room? I suppose she hasn't left it all day? This is very terrible. I don't know what to do with you. Since your poor mother died my life has been nothing but trouble and vexation. I can't manage you, you are too strong for me. So she hasn't left her room; crying her eyes out, because I won't consent to her marrying a penniless young officer! But I will not squander my money. I made it all myself, by my own industry, and I refuse to keep young fellows in idleness.”
“I don't give you any trouble, father.”
“You are the best, Maggie, but you encourage your sister Sally. I hear that you, too, were seen walking with young Meason.”
“It is not true, I assure you, father. I met him as I was going to the post-office. I said, 'How do you do?' and I passed on.”
“Where is Sally?”