“They haven’t been fighting, have they?” asked Mrs. Gilbert, nervously.
“No; but your son deliberately and maliciously, while driving Mr. Mead’s store wagon, drove into my son’s light buggy, damaged it seriously, and my poor Philip was thrown out. Your son drove off, leaving him insensible by the roadside.”
It will be perceived that Mrs. Ross had somewhat embellished the story, with the intention of producing a greater effect.
“Was Philip much hurt?” asked the widow, anxiously.
“He providentially escaped any serious injury, so far as we know. He may have suffered some internal injuries.”
“I am sorry to hear that there has been any difficulty,” said the widow, regaining her composure when she learned that neither of the two boys were hurt; “but I cannot accept your account. Harry is quite incapable of deliberately and maliciously running into Philip.”
“I regret that you uphold your son in his wickedness,” said Mrs. Ross, coldly; “but I am not surprised. I told my husband before I set out that you would probably do so.”
“Mrs. Ross,” said the widow, in a dignified tone, “I have known my boy for fifteen years, and watched him carefully, and I tell you positively that he wouldn’t do what you have charged upon him.”
“Do you question my statement?” demanded Mrs. Ross, haughtily.
“Did you witness the encounter?”