So you may set your mind at rest on that point."
"He is certainly fond of her," said the squire. "And they both
have sporting tastes. He ought to have a very good chance with her
if only the other fellow could be wiped out."
"Then leave her to me!" said Mrs. Ingleton, rising. "And mind,
dear"--she paused behind her husband's chair and placed large white
hands upon his shoulders--"whatever I do, you are not to interfere.
Is that a bargain?"
Ingleton moved again uncomfortably. "You won't be unkind to the
child?" he said.
"My dear Gilbert, don't you realize that the young lady is more
than capable of holding her own against me or anyone else?"
protested Mrs. Ingleton.
"And yet you say you can manage her?" he said.
"Well, so I can, if you will only trust to my discretion. What she
needs is a little judicious treatment, and that is what I intend to
give her. Come, that is understood, isn't it? It is perfectly
outrageous that she should have ridden roughshod over you so long.
A chit like that! And think how pleasant it will be for everyone
when she is settled and provided for. Dear me! I shall feel as if
a great weight has been lifted from my shoulders. We shall really
enjoy ourselves then."
She smiled down into her husband's dubious face, and after a moment
with a curt sigh he pulled her down and kissed her.
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