"If men, especially prime-ministers, were to apply to almost any woman I know (except, of course, myself) for advice as to the administration of the realm or their own family affairs, I have not the slightest doubt that not one of them would be sent empty away, but would be furnished instantly with a complete guide-book as to his future movements on this side the grave." "Oh, some people don't stop there," said Charles.

"Aunt Mary, in my young days, used to think nothing of the grave if I had displeased her.
She still revels in a future court of justice, and an eternal cat-o'-nine tails beyond the tomb.

Well, Molly, so here you are, back again! What's the last news ?" The news was the extraordinary arrival of five new kittens, which, according to Molly, the old stable cat had just discovered in a loft, and took the keenest personal interest in.

Charles was dragged away, only half acquiescent, to help in a decision that must instantly be come to, as to which of the two spotted or the three plain ones should be kept.
It was a day of delight to Molly.

She had the responsibility and honor of driving Ruth and the dolls in her own donkey-cart to the scene of action, where the school children, and some of the idlest or most good-natured of Mrs.Alwynn's friends, were even then assembling, and where Mrs.Alwynn herself was already dashing from point to point, buzzing like a large "bumble" bee.
As the donkey-cart crawled up a gray figure darted out of the tent, and flew to meet them from afar.