He is a wild, reckless fellow, fond of drink, gambles----" "And what of it ?" she interrupted.

"I don't suppose he's going to teach Virginia to do either." "He is no fit associate for her or for any lady.

Will you interpose your authority----" "No, I won't; I'm not going to insult a gentleman, and I'm satisfied that Virginia has sense enough to take care of herself." "Waving the question whether a man of his character is a gentleman, let me remark that it is not necessary to insult him in order to put a stop to this.

You can call your daughter to your side, keep her with you, take an early opportunity to inform her of the man's reputation, and bid her discourage his attentions.

If you do not interfere," he added in his determined way, "I shall take the matter into my own hands." "Isadore," said Mrs.Conly, "go and tell your sister I wish to speak to her." Virginia was extremely vexed at the summons, but obeyed it promptly.
"What can mamma want?
I was having such a splendid time," she said pettishly to her sister, when they were out of the captain's hearing.
"It is more Uncle Horace than mamma." Virginia reddened.