She would not attempt it again.

I can't think how it is,' looking a little grave, 'that she has Gladys so completely under her thumb.

Gladys is too proud to own that she is afraid of her, but all the same she never dares to act in opposition to Etta.' Lady Betty's confidence was rather embarrassing, but I hardly knew how to check it.

I began to think the household at Gladwyn must be a very queer one.

Uncle Max had already hinted at a want of harmony between Mr.
Hamilton and his step-sisters, and Miss Darrell seemed hardly a favourite with him, although he was too kind-hearted to say so openly.
'Has your cousin lived long with you ?' I ventured to ask.
'Oh yes; ever since Gladys and I were little things; before mamma died.
Auntie lived with us too: poor auntie, we were very fond of her, but she was a sad invalid; she died about three years ago.