We left Veronica at the table, and mother resumed her conversation with me in a corner of the room.

Presently Temperance came in with Charles, bringing fresh plates.

As soon as they began their supper, Veronica asked Temperance how the fish tasted.
"Is it salt ?" "Middling." "How is the bannock ?" "Excellent.

I will say it for Hepsey that she hasn't her beat as a cook; been at it long enough," she added, in expiation of her praise.
"Temperance, is that pound cake, or sponge ?" "Pound." "Charles can eat it," Verry said with a sigh.
"A mighty small piece he'll have--the glutton.

But he has not been here long; they are all so when they first come." She then gave him a large slice of the cake.
Veronica, contrary to her wont, huddled herself on the sofa.