Will you not let me feel that I am earning something more ?--that if, as times goes on, my conduct pleases you, you will be more disposed to consider--to grant me--" "Mehetabel!" "I love him, papa! I cannot help it.

Sir--!" She put out both hands to him, her eyes welling.

But he had turned sharply away from her cry, and strode across the room in his irritation.

Her hands fell, and one caught at the edge of the table for support while she leaned, bowing her head.
He came abruptly back.

"Are you aware, Mehetabel, that you have proposed a bargain to me?
I do not bargain with my children: I expect obedience.