CHAPTER XXX
An Encounter.
In July Paddy had to go up for her examination, and for days she was in a fever of nervous anxiety about it.
“What’s it matter!” Basil said. “Examinations never worry me.”
“They wouldn’t me if I didn’t care whether I passed or not.”
“Well, why do you? It’s silly, I think.”
“Umph!” expressively. “If I were a man I’d sooner sweep a crossing than live on my mother.”
Basil flushed and bit his lip. Things had been going so easily and pleasantly with him for years, that it was extremely trying to have these pointed remarks hurled at his head.
“The mater likes it,” he grunted.
“Well, you see, she has your delicate health so much at heart,” sarcastically. “I wonder she let you come out without an overcoat this morning. I do hope you won’t take cold.”