Besides, Mrs.Portheris was poppa's relation, and would naturally have to be guarded against.

Poppa, on the other hand, was cordiality itself--he always is.
"Why, is that so ?" said poppa, looking earnestly at Mrs.Portheris and firmly retaining her hand.

"Is this my very own Aunt Caroline ?" "At one time," responded Mrs.Portheris with a difficult smile, "and, I fear, by marriage only." "Ah, to be sure, to be sure! Poor Uncle Jimmy gave place to another.

But we won't say anything more about that.

Especially as you've been equally unfortunate with your second," said poppa sympathetically.