"He thinks I can make my mind like his if I choose; and if I don't choose, or rather can't choose, he thinks that his wishes, his authority, should be sufficient to make me act as if it was.

Well, I won't do that.

He may go on,"-- and that pleasant smile lit up Michael's plain face--"he may go on being unaware of my presence as long as he pleases.

I am very sorry it should be so, but I can't help it.

And the worst of it is, that opposition of that sort--his sort--makes me more determined than ever." Aunt Barbara nodded.
"And your friends ?" she asked.