"Mr. Martin," she said, "if I do what I intend for you--and it lies in my power--will you please not come to Aylmer House to-morrow?"
"Ho, hi! And why not? Ashamed of me, eh?"
"Not at all," said Aneta. "I am not ashamed of you in your walk in life; but I think it would be best for Maggie if you did not come; therefore I ask you not to do so."
"No, she is her mother's daughter; and, to tell the truth, we all want--I mean, my aunt and I, and others--to have her to ourselves, at least until she is educated."
"But, come now, miss, that's all very fine. Who pays for her education?"
"I know about it," said Aneta. "That is sufficient. Now, Mr. Martin, I ask you to become grocer to my aunt, Lady Lysle, of Eaton Square, and to any friends who she may recommend, on the sole condition that you do not come to Aylmer House, and that you allow Maggie Howland to spend the holidays with us."
"Oh, my word, I am sure I don't care," said Martin,
"Yes, I promise fast enough. If you're going to take Maggie and bring her up a fine lady she'll never suit me. All I beg is that she doesn't come back to me like a bad penny some day."
"That I can absolutely assure you she will never do. I am exceedingly obliged to you. Will you come with me now and let me say a few words to my aunt; for as you have made your definite promise to leave Maggie alone, my aunt must make a definite promise to you."
Lady Lysle was much astonished, as she sat wearily in her carriage, when a red-faced, bald-looking, stout grocer accompanied her elegant young niece to the carriage-door.
"Aunt Lucia," said Aneta, "this is Mr. Martin."
Lady Lysle gave the faintest inclination of her head.
"Proud to see your ladyship," said Martin.
"I have been making arrangements with Mr. Martin," said Aneta, "and on certain conditions he will do what I want. Will you please, in future, get your groceries from him?"
"I will faithfully attend to you, my lady, if agreeable to you. I will come weekly for _h_orders. I will do anything to oblige your ladyship."
"Please, auntie, you've got to do it," said Aneta.
"My dear, it depends on Watson, my housekeeper."
"Oh, I'll manage Watson," said Aneta, springing lightly into the carriage, her face all beams and smiles.--"It is quite right, Mr. Martin; and you will get your second order this evening. You won't forget about the tea and currants and sugar for the poor people.--Now, auntie, will you drive me back to Aylmer House, or shall we go straight to Eaton Square?"