Paul's eyes flashed with justifiable indignation.
"I should like to see Miss Framley," he said. "This won't do."
"She won't see you. Better take the money and go."
"I will take the money—on account, but not in full payment. I wish to see Miss Framley."
That young lady was listening at the head of the stairs, being desirous of hearing whether the messenger made any fuss about her mean reduction of a reasonable price, and thought it best to descend the stairs and argue the matter.
"Are you the son of Mrs. Palmer?" she asked.
"Yes, Miss Framley."
"Then tell your mother she asks too much for her work. A dollar is quite enough for the little she did."
"Do you know how long she was occupied with your work?" said Paul.
"No; I suppose she did it in a day or two," answered the young lady, in a tone of indifference.