The slight gruffness that was characteristic of her voice grew more pronounced in her emotion.
Mrs. Ogden drew her daughter to her; the gesture was full of soft, compelling strength.
"It's a shame!"
"What is, dear?" said Mrs. Ogden, suddenly attentive.
"Father!" cried Joan defiantly.
"Hush, hush, darling."
"But it is; he bullies you."
"No, dear, don't say such things; your father has a weak heart."
"But you're ill, too, and Father's heart isn't always as bad as he makes out. This morning——"
"Hush, Joan, you mustn't. I know I'm not strong, but we must never let him know that I sometimes feel ill."