"Did she, though," said the admiring Mrs. Truefitt. "I wish I'd been here."
"I can do it agin, ma'am," said the obliging Mrs. Porter.
"If you come near me again—" said the breathless Richard, stepping back a pace.
"I shouldn't force his love," said Mrs. Truefitt; "it'll come back in time, I dare say."
"I'm sure he's affectionate," said Prudence.
Mr. Catesby eyed his tormentors in silence; the faces of Prudence and her mother betokened much innocent enjoyment, but the austerity of Mrs. Porter's visage was unrelaxed.
"Better let bygones be bygones," said Mrs. Truefitt; "he'll be sorry by-and-by for all the trouble he has caused."
"He'll be ashamed of himself—if you give him time," added Prudence.
Mr. Catesby had heard enough; he took up his hat and crossed to the door.
"Take care he doesn't run away from you again," repeated Mrs. Truefitt.