Arnold reckoned without her host. She met with more
opposition than she expected, and the lesson she yet had to learn
cost her a bitter experience!
Mrs. Verne's vascillating nature was a source of much annoyance to
her first-born.
"It is so provoking," murmured Mrs. Arnold, as she noted the
infatuation her mother possessed for a certain baronet of a
distinguished Yorkshire family.
"I've set my mind upon Hubert, and mamma must yield. As for Madge,
she is out of the matter entirely."
As if in answer to her thoughts the young man was soon at her side
looking quite interesting.
"You naughty boy; I am inclined to be angry with you--not one dance
have you sought."
"From the very fact that I cannot have one. Ah, Mrs. Arnold, you
well know how to amuse yourself at the expense of us poor
unfortunates," said Mr. Tracy, glancing at the tablet already filled
for every dance.
"I have a mind to cancel this," said he, pointing to that of the
Yorkshire baronet.
"No, indeed, Mr. Tracy; that would be pleasure at too great a
sacrifice. I have a motive for entertaining the baronet."
Mrs. Arnold smiled one of her peculiarly attractive smiles,
significant of the part she was to enact.
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