With them Mrs.Proudie had not been so successful as with the bishop.

They had wills of their own which became stronger and stronger every day.

Of the three with whom Mrs.
Proudie was blessed one was already in a position to exercise that will in a legitimate way over a very excellent young clergyman in the diocese, the Rev.Optimus Grey; but the other two, having as yet no such opening for their powers of command, were perhaps a little too much inclined to keep themselves in practice at home.

But at half-past seven punctually Mrs.Proudie was there, and so was the domestic chaplain; so was Mr.Robarts, and so were the household servants--all excepting one lazy recreant.

"Where is Thomas ?" said she of the Argus eyes, standing up with her book of family prayers in her hand.