Mr. Medhurst returned later, and she managed to get a short interview with him, and to obtain a more definite knowledge as to what her supervision and powers with regard to her pupil might mean. She noticed a worried expression come into his eyes as she broached the subject.
"Miss Woodford, I am afraid I must admit my little girl has been spoilt," he answered. "You understand my wife is not strong—and—well, there it is——" and he spread his hands deprecatingly as he spoke.
"Does it mean I am to have full control?" asked Margaret—"I mean in this way," she added. "My pupil had no lessons to-day; she ran away to the woods this morning because I could not allow her to eat cake instead of her breakfast, and——"
"Oh, I'm glad if you intervened in that matter! I have forbidden that," he answered quickly.
"So I understood."
"And you supported the order?"
"Yes, and offended Ellice very deeply, I'm afraid," laughed Margaret.
"Never mind, you succeed if you get your way. Go on as you have begun, Miss Woodford; I cannot suggest anything to you, but"—lowering his voice—-"if you can win my child and gain control over her, I shall be more than grateful."
His manner was earnest, but Margaret felt there was reservation when he paused and suddenly changed the conversation. The little she had gathered strengthened her in her purpose. There was evidently trouble in this house which could not be fully explained.
She went to bed that night puzzled, but determined to try and do her duty whatever the future might mean to her.