Anything," said Mrs. Milton, "anything in reason."

But will you keep your promise?" said Jessie.

Surely you won't dictate to your mother!" said Widgery.

My stepmother! I don't want to dictate. I want definite promises now."

This is most unreasonable," said the clergyman. "Very well," said

Jessie, swallowing a sob but with unusual resolution. "Then I won't go

back. My life is being frittered away--"

"LET her have her way," said Widgery.

"A room then. All your Men. I'm not to come down and talk away half my

days--"

"My dear child, if only to save you," said Mrs. Milton. "If you don't

keep your promise--"

Then I take it the matter is practically concluded," said the

clergyman. "And that you very properly submit to return to your proper

home. And now, if I may offer a suggestion, it is that we take

tea. Freed of its tannin, nothing, I think, is more refreshing and

stimulating."

251

The Wheels of Chance