“Which I am—I am,” said Mrs. Howland. “He is a dear, quite a dear; and so comical and amusing!”
“Then it’s all right,” said Maggie. “You know I told you yesterday that nothing would induce me to live at Laburnum Villa; but I will certainly come to you, mums, in the holidays, if you wish it.”
“But, dear child, there is no money to keep you at that expensive school. There isn’t a penny.”
“Oh, well, well, mother, perhaps that can be managed. But now we needn’t talk any more about my future until after Mr. Martin has had tea with you to-day. If you have any news for me when I return from Richmond you can let me know.”
“You are a very independent girl to go to Richmond by yourself.”
“Oh, that’ll be all right,” said Maggie in a cheerful tone.
“Have you anything else to say to me?”
“Yes. You know all that beautiful jewellery that my dear father brought back with him from those different countries where he spent his life.”
Mrs. Howland looked mysterious and frightened. 96
“It was meant for me eventually, was it not?” said Maggie.