“Nancy, you may leave the room. I’ll call you if I want you.”
This was what Mrs. Ross said to the servant, fearing that Uncle Obed might refer to her early poverty, and that the girl might talk about it in the neighborhood.
Though Colonel Ross made conversation easy for him, Uncle Obed could not help feeling the coldness of his niece.
“Lucindy might treat me better,” he thought, “after what I did for her in her early days. But I see how it is; she’s ashamed of them, and I won’t say anything to make her feel bad. I see I must look elsewhere for a home. Lucindy don’t want me here, and I shouldn’t feel at home myself. I wish Philip was more like that Harry Gilbert, who showed me the way here.”
Supper was over, and Philip took up his hat to go out.
“Philip,” said his father, “you forget that your uncle is here. You should stay to keep him company.”
“I’ve got an engagement,” said Philip, alarmed at the suggestion.
“Can’t you put it off?”
“Let the boy keep his engagement,” said Uncle Obed. “I like to see young people particular about keeping their appointments.”
“Your uncle may like to walk out with you, and see something of the village.”