I shouldn't wonder if she brought a famine with her.' 'Remember, Netta, who said "and if ye have done it unto the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me."' 'If those people are one's brethren, as father says, the sooner we disown our relations the better.' Whilst Miss Janetta was uttering this unchristian speech, and greatly shocking her mother thereby, a young man entered with a book in his hand, and throwing himself on the sofa, began to read.

It was soon, however, evident that he was listening to the conversation, although he professedly kept his eyes on his book.

Poor Mrs Prothero continued her efforts to enlist her daughter on the side of charity, but did not greatly prevail.

The young man did not interfere, probably being aware that it is better to let two women finish their own quarrel.
Again, however, they were interrupted by the appearance of a fourth, and more animated personage.
'Good evening, Mrs Prothero.

How do you do, Netta ?' exclaimed the new comer, shaking Mrs Prothero's hand, and pulling Netta's curls.