“Every word an insult,” panted Aunt Phœbe. “Every word. What have you done with them?”
“Until we are satisfied that you will consent to continue their training on proper lines, Miss Stubland, you can scarcely expect us to put it in your power to annoy these poor children further.”
Mr. Grimes’ face was wincing much more than usual, and these involuntary grimaces affected Aunt Phœbe in her present mood as though they were deliberate insults. He did not allow for this added exasperation.
“Annoy!” cried Aunt Phœbe.
“That is the usual expression. We are perfectly within our rights in refusing you access. Having regard to your manifest determination to upset any proper arrangement.”
“You refuse to let me know where those children are?”
“Unless you can get an order against us.”
“You mean—go to some old judge?”
Mr. Grimes gesticulated assent. If she chose to phrase it in that way, so much the worse for her application.
“You won’t—— You will go on with this kidnapping?”