“I am sorry to tell you, Mr Harringay, that Phyllis has been rather naughty. She has been out without leave, and came home just now in a disgraceful mess.”
“The young monkey,” said the Squire, laughing. “I saw her; she rode past the ‘Blue Dragon,’ a herd of children following her. I never was so amazed in my life; but she did look handsome and as if she were enjoying herself. I was told that the children belonged to the Rectory.”
“I don’t care whom they belong to,” said Miss Fleet. “They are very naughty children, and badly behaved; and if Phyllis has much to do with them she will get just as rough and wild herself.”
“Bless her! she is perfect whatever happens,” said the Squire energetically.
“Mr Harringay,” said the governess, “may I ask you a question?”
“My dear Miss Fleet, certainly. You know that I have the highest opinion of you.”
“Have I the charge of Phyllis or have I not?”
“Bless me, bless me!” said the Squire, in some agitation, “of course you have the charge of her.”
“Then that is all right; and she has got to obey me, has she not?”
“Of course, my good creature, of course.” Just then Phyllis danced into the room. She looked very pretty in her evening-frock, and her happy afternoon had brought a red colour into her cheeks and a glow of happiness into her grey eyes.