Remember that I am many years older and wiser than you.

You should leave it to me to do what is best." Jeanne shook her head.
"I cannot," she said simply.

"I am sorry to disappoint you, but I shall tell every one I meet that I have no money, and I will not marry the Count de Brensault." The Princess grasped her by the wrist.
"You will not obey me, child ?" she said.
"I will obey you in everything reasonable," Jeanne said.
"Very well, then," the Princess answered, "go to your room at once." Jeanne turned and walked toward the door.

On the threshold, however, she paused.

There were many times, she remembered, when her stepmother had been kind to her.