Stephen might object, but he was not unreasonable, and his society would certainly be good for Bob.

She was not altogether pleased by the thought of the Charnocks' visits, but Sadie's resolve to help her husband had touched her.

Then there was something flattering in the hint that she and Stephen could take a part in his reformation.
"Very well," she said.

"I hope you will come when you like.

It will do Stephen no harm to get a rest instead of hurrying back to work after supper." Sadie looked grateful.