Mary inquired whether the doctor was in.
Dr. Rowcliffe was in but he was engaged in the surgery.
Mary thought she knew why Gwenda had come to-day.
For the last two or three Wednesdays Rowcliffe had left Garthdale without calling at the Vicarage.
He had not meant to break his habit, but it happened so. For, this year, Mary had decided to have a day, from May to October. And her day was Wednesday.
Her sister had ignored her day, and Mary was offended.
She had every reason. Mary believed in keeping up appearances, and the appearance she most desired to keep up was that of behaving beautifully to her sister. This required her sister's co-operation. It couldn't appear if Gwenda didn't. And Gwenda hadn't given it a chance. She meant to have it out with her.
She greeted her therefore with a certain challenge.
"What are you keeping away for? Do you suppose we aren't glad to see you?"
"I'm not keeping away," said Gwenda.