But she did mean it.

I know, because she said it before, once, last year, that she hoped you _would_ find one." "Oh, she did." He sat back in his chair again, sort of limp-like.

But I couldn't tell yet, from his face, whether I'd convinced him or not.
So I went on.
"Yes, and that isn't all.

There's another reason, why I know Mother always has--has your best interest at heart.

She--she tried to make me over into Mary before I came, so as to please you." "She did _what_ ?" Once more he made me jump, he turned so suddenly, and spoke with such a short, sharp snap.
But in spite of the jump I went right on, just as I had before, firm and decided.