“Well, C’listy didn’t know, did she?” said his father.
“And Ev’lina said she’d train us well, and whip us, and shut us up, and be awful cross all the time. She doesn’t look like that, does she, papa?”
“No, she does not,” said his father; “and I guess Evelina must have been mistaken too.”
Agnes was all this time looking at Frank, very much amused, and laughing quietly at the description which had been given of her to the children.
“You think I do not look so very terrible, then, Master Frank,” said she; “do you think you will ever like me?”
“I don’t know,” said Master Frank, boldly; “if you don’t make me mind, I’ll like you.”
“But she is going to make you mind, Master Frank,” said his father; “and, do you know, I have promised Miss Elwyn that she shall do just what she pleases with you all, and nobody shall interfere.”
“In school hours,” said Agnes.
“Yes, in school hours, and out of school hours, except when their mother or I are present: they are always to obey you, Miss Elwyn. I wish that to be understood in the family. But, my dear,” said he to his wife, “perhaps Miss Elwyn would like to change her dress before tea.”
Mrs. Fairland languidly directed Tiney to show Miss Elwyn to her room; but the only notice taken of this command by Miss Tiney was a stupid, sullen stare. Agnes had risen to leave the room; but perceiving that Tiney did not stir, she turned, and putting out one hand toward Rosa, said, in her own bright, winning way: