A loud crash in the kitchen disturbed my dream, and Temperance rushed in, dragging my sister Veronica, whose hair was streaming with milk; she had pulled a panful over her from the buttery shelf, while Temperance was taking up the supper.

Father laughed, but mother said: "What have I done, to be so tormented by these terrible children ?" Her mild blue eyes blazed, as she stamped her foot and clenched her hands.

Father took his hat and left the room.

Veronica sat down on the floor, with her eyes fixed upon her, and I leaned against the wall.

It was a gust that I knew would soon blow over.