"I have never asked him," I said mischievously, "but he looks older than you."
"Medoline, what are you saying? He was a grandfather years ago."
"And I am afraid that is an honor which Mr. Winthrop will never attain," I tried to say sympathetically.
Mrs. Flaxman cast him a startled look; but he smiled very calmly as if the words had merely amused him.
CHAPTER XX.
MRS. LE GRANDE.
I was impatient for the appointed hour to come when I was expected at Rose Cottage. I had tried to get further information from Esmerelda respecting Mrs. Le Grande; but she seemed unwilling to say much about her, leaving me more mystified than ever.
"You will know all pretty soon from her own lips, Miss, and it would cost me my place if Mr. Winthrop knew I was meddling with what didn't concern me."
"Mr. Winthrop is not a severe master. I think he interferes very little with our household matters."