“It is very hot,” she said.
“And you are very tired,” said Mr. Parker. “Now listen; I am going to have my own way, and nobody shall interfere. What is the good of money if you cannot spend it now and then? You want to go to Richmond?” turning to Mrs. Gilroy, “Go to Richmond you shall, but you are not going by train. No, we will have a carriage, and I will drive you down. A carriage will hold you and myself and a couple of the children. Not another word, my dear friend. What is the good of money if you cannot have a treat?”
“But you do far too much for us, Mr. Parker,” replied Mrs. Gilroy.
“Far too much!” he answered; “tut, tut! not a bit of it. I am a lonely man, madam. My one interest in life is you and your family.”
Here he glanced at Leslie, but the next moment looked away. There was disapproval in his face.
Leslie started up impulsively. All the provisions were packed.
“Yes, mother,” she cried, “do let Mr. Parker drive you; it will do you no end of good.”
“All right, darling. I have not the least objection if you will come with us. I need not ask you, Mr. Parker, if you will object to Leslie being one of the party in the carriage?”
“Dan shall sit on my knee,” said Mr. Parker, “and two of the children can be crowded in. Just as Miss Leslie likes, of course.”
But Leslie had left the room. She called Llewellyn to follow her.