"Were you going to drive with Tony Bronson, Edith?" asked her stepmother.
"Yes, I am going, to-morrow."
"I think I agree with Cynthia, then. I hardly think your father would wish you to go."
"Why, how perfectly absurd!" exclaimed Edith, growing very angry. "There has never been any question of my going to drive with any one who asked me. Do you suppose I am going to give it up now?"
"I suppose you are, Edith," said Mrs. Franklin, quietly, but with decision. "In your father's absence you are in my charge, and I do not consider it desirable for you to drive with Mr. Bronson, nor with any other young man whom you know so slightly. It is not in good taste, to say the least. Please oblige me by giving it up this time. If I am mistaken in your father's views on the subject you can go after he gets home."
"I won't give it up!" exclaimed Edith, hotly. "Tony Bronson will be gone when papa gets home, and, besides, what can I tell him? I've said I would go."
"It is always possible to break an engagement of that kind," said her mother; "you can tell him that you find I have made other plans for you."
"I sha'n't tell him any such thing, Mrs. Franklin. I think it is too bad. You have no right to order me."
"No right, Edith? I have at least a right to be spoken to with respect, and you will oblige me by doing so. Please send a note to Mr. Bronson by the man to-night."
She left the room, and Cynthia, who had restrained herself with great difficulty, now gave vent to her feelings.