"Of course not. The callow youth knows his power. Anybody else in favor of the Peppers?" aloud, and looking at the company.
"Don't ask us if we like the Peppers," cried two young ladies simultaneously. "They are our especial and particular pets, every one of them."
"The Peppers win," said Hamilton Dyce, looking full into Mrs. Chatterton's contemptuous face. "I'm glad to record my humble self as their admirer. Now"—
"Well, pa!" Mary could not refrain from interrupting as her father suddenly appeared in the doorway.
"I can't sit down," he said, as the company made way for him to join them. "I came home for some important papers. I suppose you have heard the trouble at the Kings? I happened to drop in there. Well, Dyce," laying his hand on that gentleman's chair, "I scarcely expected to see you here to-day. Why aren't you at the club spread?"
"Cousin Horatio! I suppose he's had a paralytic attack," interrupted
Mrs. Chatterton, with her most sagacious air.
"What's the trouble up there?" queried Mr. Dyce, ignoring the question thrust at him.
"It's the little beauty—Phronsie," said Mr. Taylor.
"Nothing's happened to that child I hope!" cried Madame Dyce, paling.
"Now, Mr. Taylor, you are not going to harrow our feelings by telling us anything has harmed that lovely creature," exclaimed the two young ladies excitedly.