"What a shame you didn't come to see us before," said Alice reproachfully.
"O then, I suppose it was you who shut the door when we were singing this afternoon," interposed Rose, "why didn't you come in."
"I did not wish to disturb you" he answered, "but why don't some of you have the politeness to introduce me to your new governess."
Isabel colored deeply as he used the distasteful appellation, and bent lower over her book, and when Rose said,
Mr. Everard Arlington, Miss Leicester," her bow was more haughty and dignified than she was aware of. He seated himself at the window with Amy on his knee, while the others stood one on either side. Isabel heard a great deal being said about Miss Leicester in an under tone, and was about to leave the room, when Everard interposed, saying "I shall go, unless you stay Miss Leicester, I'm not going to turn you out of the room."
"Indeed I would rather go," said Isabel.
"Indeed I would rather you stayed."
returned Everard.
"I do not wish to be any restraint on the children, it would be better for me to go."
"Well," said Everard putting his hand on the door, "I may as well have it out with you at once, as I did with Miss Manning, I am very fond of my little sisters, and often come to see them here."