So to-night, without thinking of the latter's new relations to him, Frank took his old place. Mr. Craven noticed it, and soft and compliant as he was, he determined to assert his position at once. "I believe that is my place," he said, with an unpleasant smile.
"Oh, I beg pardon," said Frank, his face flushing.
"You forgot, I suppose," said Mr. Craven, still smiling.
"Yes, sir."
"You'll soon get used to the change," said his step-father, as he seated himself in the chair Frank had relinquished.
Mrs. Craven looked a little uncomfortable. She began to realize that she had introduced a stranger into the family, and that this would interfere to a considerable extent with their old pleasant way of living.
No one seemed inclined to talk except Mr. Craven. He seemed disposed to be sociable, and passed from one subject to another, regardless of the brief answers he received.
"Well, Frank, and how have you got along since we were away?" he asked.
"Very well, sir."
"And you haven't missed us then?"