“See that you don’t, then,” said Jem.
“He made himself very agreeable this afternoon, that is all we need say,” said Mrs Inglis. “We are not likely to see very much of him in future.”
Nothing more was said at that time. They saw a good deal of both brothers during the next few weeks. But they saw nothing for a good while that inclined either Violet or Davie to change their opinion of the elder one.
The next day Frank came home with them from church. He was the only one of the family at church that day, for it had rained in the morning, and they were not very regular churchgoers at the best of times.
“Papa said I might go home with you, if Aunt Mary asked me,” said Frank, as he joined them at the door.
“Come on, then,” said Jem. “Mamma doesn’t approve of Sunday visiting, as a general thing, but you are one of ourselves by this time. Mamma, ask Frank to come.”
Mrs Inglis smiled.
“Come and read with the children, Frank,” said she.
Frank was only too happy to go. He did not go to the Sunday-school with the others, but chose to stay at home with Mrs Inglis and little Mary. But the first person the others saw when they came to Muddy Lane was Mr Philip, waiting for them at the corner, as though it were the most natural and proper thing in the world for him to be there.
“I came to hear what your friend Mr Caldwell has to say to-day, Jem,” said he.