"And leave Spottiswoode to the ladies' care?"
"To be sure; Spottiswoode was a lady's man, and they were always petted animals."
"Well, Miss Julia," said Mr. Wycherly, "I give Spottiswoode into your hands, and you are responsible for consequences. Pen and you will entertain him as long as he behaves well."
Julia promised to be his guardian angel, and she proceeded with Mr. Spottiswoode to the sitting-room, where Miss Wycherly was lying extended upon the sofa, thoughtful and hopeless of ever seeing happy days again, if they were to be purchased by her own submission. She rose slowly as the door opened.
"What a time you have been flirting with papa, Julia!" she exclaimed, reproachfully. At that moment she perceived Mr. Spottiswoode, and a cry of surprise burst from her lips, but she did not advance to receive him. Mr. Spottiswoode stood near the door, and, resenting the coldness of his reception, he spoke only to Julia.
"Miss Wetheral, you wished to speak with me; may I beg the favour of your communication?"
"It is comprised in few words, Mr. Spottiswoode. My friend Penelope is distressed and grieved at having given you unprovoked offence, and she pines to recover your esteem."
"No—no—it is not true!" shrieked Miss Wycherly, hiding her face among the sofa pillows.
"Mr. Spottiswoode," continued Julia, "you are both unhappy, and this misunderstanding will never end without the assistance of a mutual friend. I now tell you, Penelope regrets her error, but fears to lessen herself in your opinion, by doing justice to herself and you. She is miserable at having quarrelled, and why should you not know it, and be friends?"