CHAPTER XVIII.
In the partial reconciliation between Mrs.Mutimer and her children there was no tenderness on either side.

The old conditions could not be restored, and the habits of the family did not lend themselves to the polite hypocrisy which lubricates the wheels of the refined world.

There was to be a parting, and probably it would be for life.

In Richard's household his mother could never have a part, and when Alice married, doubtless the same social difficulty would present itself.

It was not the future to which Mrs.Mutimer had looked forward, but, having said her say, she resigned herself and hardened her heart.