"I guess not," said Mr. Hartland; "I should have something to say about that."
"You might call her Jezebel, or Bathsheba," suggested Robert; "I dare say they were both genuine Protestants." There was frequently an uncertainty as to how Robert's missiles were intended to fall; and whether his barbed arrows were sped in innocence or with malice aforethought was a point in regard to which the most unlimited private judgment was conceded to every member of the family. Of course, nobody laughed at this sally, though Isabel bit her lip to keep from smiling, and George said,
"Why not call her Annie, after Aunt Ann?"
"I have been thinking of that," said mamma, "only Isabel thinks it is such a homespun name."
"I like homespun names," said papa.
Isabel liked Blanche, and Fanny suggested Margaret. Robert thought Schwartz would be more appropriate than Blanche. George said any name was good that was in the calendar. Robert said Charlotte Corday was in the calendar. George thought not, and after a brisk discussion and sundry pros and cons, it was decided to call the little one Annie.
"And St. Anne was the mother of the Blessed Virgin Mary," whispered George to Isabel, as he opened the piano for her.
"Christmas gifts not appreciated," said George, turning round at the head of the first flight of stairs to bid Isabel good night.
"What do you mean?" said Bell.
"I mean the dear little sister in there," pointing to his mother's room, "whom you think a little nuisance."