Leila did not accept the decree, but defended herself gaily.

"Aunt Ann," she said, "Douglas is right, or at least half right.

And do tell me how old must a girl be before she has a right to think ?" "Think! Oh, if you like, think.

But, my dear Leila, your uncle, Mr.
Rivers and I, although we think and hold very diverse opinions, feel that on such matters discussion only leaves a sting, and so we tacitly leave it out of our talk.

There, my dear, you have my opinion." There was a moment of silence.