That the assumption was not entirely unsuccessful was shown by the response which came instantly from the other side of the door.
"Is that you, Nannie? You silly old thing! Where have you been? What have you been doing? And why have you locked this door?--open it at once!"
"And to whom will I open it, please?"
There came a peal of girlish laughter as a prelude to this reply.
"Nannie, you are an old stupid! Do you mean to say that you don't recognise my voice as well as I do yours? Why, I'm Meg come back to see you again!--open the door at once, you goose!"
"I'll no open the door this day."
"Nannie!"
"Margaret Wallace, I tell you I'll no open the door for you this day, so back you go from where you came."
"Nannie! how can you speak to me like that! How dare you!"
"I'm but obeying Mr. Cuthbert's orders, and it's not fear of you that'll stay me from doing that."