"I don't want my grandchildren behaving like a lot of rustics." This speech greatly offended Marjorie, and it was with difficulty that she refrained from answering that they were not rustics.

But she controlled herself, and said that of course she would curtsey to the young guests if Grandma wished her to.
"Now that's a little lady," said Grandma, approvingly, and Marjorie felt glad that she hadn't given way to her irritation.
"What time is the party, Grandma ?" asked Kitty.
"From four to six, Kitty; but you children must be dressed, and in the drawing-room at quarter before four." The day dragged along, as there was nothing especial to do and no way to have any fun.

Grandpa Maynard had gone out with their father, and though the children went up in the billiard room they didn't feel just like romping.
"I hate this house!" said King, unable to repress the truth any longer.
"So do I!" said Kitty.

"If we stay here much longer, I'll run away." This surprised the other two, for Kitty was usually mild and gentle, and rarely gave way to such speech as this.
"It's Grandma Maynard that makes the trouble," said King.

"She's so pernickety and fussy about us.