"As you know, that is just the point. We are not in Africa, but in England, where a social code exists."
"And as long as I am with you, must I behave so—pretending not to see people who have been kind to me?"
"As long as you live with me, you will do as I tell you."
"Whether I think it right or not?"
"Certainly; you have no right to set your judgment against mine."
"Thank you for explaining that to me. I am afraid I shall not be able to stay with you," she said simply.
"That is a foolish, as well as a rude speech, Melicent."
"I beg your pardon; I am sorry I am foolish, and I did not mean to be rude. Is that all you wanted to say to me?"
"Nonsensical impertinence!" said the vicar. "Where could you go, I wonder, if I declined to keep you?"
"To Mr. and Mrs. Helston," she replied unhesitatingly. "They have told Mr. Mayne that they would like to have me."