Miss Seaton (distressed). Indeed. I—I never meant—Gwennie didn't understand me quite—that is all!
Gwen. Oh, Miss Seaton! when you said I wasn't to tell tales or repeat things—you did say so!
Miss Seaton. Yes, yes, but that was a different kind of tale altogether, Gwennie,—you may tell a fairy tale!
Gwen. (obstinately). If I mayn't tell any kind of story I like, I shan't tell any at all—so there!
Uncle Gab. Pretty behaviour, upon my word! Children didn't behave like that in my young days, Maria! I should no more have dared to refuse to tell my elders anything they—but it strikes me you leave her too much with her governess—who, by the bye, has been going on with his Lordship in a manner that well, really I shouldn't have thought——!
Mrs. Tid. (mortified and angry). I am not at all satisfied with Miss Seaton in many ways, Uncle—you can safely leave her to me!
[She gives the signal; Lord Strath. opens the door.
Lord Strath. (to Miss Seaton, as she passes, last but one). I—I suppose I shall get a word with you upstairs?
Mrs. Tid. (overhearing—to herself). I'll take good care he doesn't! (To Lord S., waspishly.) Let me advise you to be very careful!
[Lord Strath. closes the door after her, with relief and amazement.