He certainly had the best of it now.
Alec was on the point of exclaiming "That's a lie," but he had prudence enough to restrain himself, perceiving that the contradiction would have a better chance with his mother if he delayed its utterance till after the departure of Bruce.

So, meantime, the subject was not pursued.

A little desultory conversation followed, and the visitor departed, with a laugh from between his teeth as he took leave of Alec, which I can only describe as embodying an _I told you so_ sort of satisfaction.
Almost as soon as he was out of the house the parlour-door opened, and Mary brought in Annie.

Mrs Forbes's eyes were instantly fixed on her with mild astonishment, and something of a mother's tenderness awoke in her heart towards the little maid-child.

What would she not have given for such a daughter! During Bruce's call, Mary had been busy with the child.