“Ye-es, I may have said so. You know, Uncle Oliver, you have held no communication with her for many years.”
“That is true—more shame to me!”
“And I thought I was carrying out your wishes in discouraging her visits.”
“You also thought that she might be a dangerous rival in my favor, and might deprive you and Alonzo of an expected share in my estate.”
“Oh, Uncle Oliver! how can you think so poorly of me?”
Mr. Carter eyed his niece with a half-smile.
“So I do you injustice, do I, Lavinia?” he returned.
“Yes, great injustice.”
“I am glad to hear it. I feel less objection now to telling you what are my future plans.”
“What are they?” asked Mrs. Pitkin apprehensively.