As a means of passing the time, this device of her sister-in-law enormously delighted Anne. “I confess to a certain amount of sympathy with the unemployed. It is a Sabbath lockout.”
Margaret turned on her with abruptness; but Lyndsay said, quickly:
“My dear Anne, this is Margaret’s business. Keep out of other folks’ small wars. You are as bad as Jack.”
“That is true, Archie. I am a conversational free lance. I beg pardon, Margaret, I will never, never do it again.”
“Not until the next time,” returned Mrs. Lyndsay, with unusual ascerbity. “It is really of no moment,” she added, “but I like to manage the boys myself.”
“You are right. I was wrong to meddle.”
“I propose,” said Lyndsay, “that the two Gaspé men shall take you fellows up the Arrapedia. You will find it hard work if they let you pole, and you can’t drown there if you try; and the black flies, mosquitos, and midges will make you miserable. And, Jack, come here,—nearer. This in your ear: at the second bend there is an old clearing, and under the eaves of the cabin—now, don’t let it out—there is a mighty nest of hornets. I recommend it to your attention. I owe them a grudge.”
Jack’s face flushed with joy.
“Thank you, sir.”
Mrs. Lyndsay said, “What is it, Archie?”