"I have no doubt Mrs. Busby repents," said Mrs. Mowbray.
"I have no doubt she is sorry."
"I know she is," said Rotha; "but she would do it again to-morrow."
"What has she done, after all? My dear, human nature is weak."
"I know it is," said Rotha eagerly; "and if I thought it would do her the least bit of good, as far as I am concerned, I would be quite willing to ask her to Southwode. I do not at all wish to give her what I think she deserves."
"I am afraid I do," said Mr. Southwode; "and that is a disposition not to be indulged. Let us give her the chance of possible good, and ask her, Rotha."
"Then I must ask her here Monday."
"I suppose I can stand that."
There was a little pause.
"Well," said Rotha, "if you think it is better, I do not care. It will be a punishment to her,—but perhaps it would be a worse punishment to stay away."