CHAPTER XVIII. A STORMY TIME.
"What does this mean?" demanded Grit, in a stern voice. "What have these men been doing?"
"Oh, Grit, I am glad you are here!" said his mother. "Mr. Brandon has brought this man here against my will, and he has treated me rudely."
Travers looked round and saw the boy.
"Hello, my young friend!" he said. "You didn't tell me that my friend Brandon was your stepfather."
"Because I was ashamed of it," answered Grit promptly.
"D'ye hear that, Brandon?" said Travers. "The boy says he is ashamed of you."
"I'll settle with him when I feel better," said Brandon, who realized that he was not in a condition even to deal with a boy. "He's a bad-mannered cub, an' deserves a floggin'."
"You won't give it to me!" said Grit contemptuously. "What is the name of this man you have brought into the house?"