We're not going to go in for etiquette--Madelene and I." Mrs.Ranger looked amused.

This from the young man who had for years been "picking" at her because she was unconventional! "People will misunderstand you, mother," had been his oft-repeated polite phrase.

She couldn't resist a mild revenge.

"People'll misunderstand, if she comes.
They'll think she's running after me." Like all renegades, the renegades from the religion of conventionality are happiest when they are showing their contempt for that before which they once knelt.

"Let 'em think," retorted Arthur cheerfully.