"But there was no mare due to foal so early," remarked the Squire.
"Only old Honeysuckle," said Eli, with a smile.
"You mean to tell me the old mare has a foal? I was certain it would be the middle of the month before that event came off," said the Squire.
"I knew you were wrong, but I did not contradict you," replied Eli.
"Then if you knew I was wrong, it was your business to tell me, and you ought to have done so," said the Squire.
Eli was a privileged servant, and although always respectful to the Squire, occasionally answered him bluntly.
"It is not an easy matter to contradict you, Squire; you generally like to have your own way," said Eli.
Irene laughed, and said she must certainly side with him in his remark.
"That is rather hard upon me," replied the Squire. "I had no idea I was so obstinate."
"Oh, but you are," laughed Irene, "and once you have made up your mind you stick to it through thick and thin."