Then she hesitated and looked down. But Barbara had a strong will, and when she had made up her mind to do what she believed to be right, allowed no weakness to interfere with the execution.
‘And now I want to speak about something else. I must beg you will not encourage Eve. She is a child, thoughtless and foolish.’
‘Yes; she should be kept more strictly guarded. I do not encourage her. I regret her giddiness, and give her good advice, which she casts to the winds. Excuse my saying it, but you and Mr. Jordan are spoiling the child.’
‘My father and I spoil Eve! That is not possible.’
‘You think so; I do not. The event will prove which is right, Miss Jordan.’
Barbara was annoyed. What right had Jasper to dictate how Eve was to be treated?
‘That ring,’ began Barbara, and halted.
‘It is not lost again, surely!’ said Jasper.
Barbara frowned. ‘I am not alluding to my ring which you found along with my glove, but to that which you gave to Eve.’
‘I gave her no ring; I do not understand you.’