“My dears,” said their father, “he is a diffident gentleman, and I should say particularly so in the society of girls of your age.”

“Nonsense, our age!” cried Bella, impatiently. “What’s that got to do with him?”

“Besides, we are not of the same age:⁠—which age?” demanded Lavinia.

“Never you mind, Lavvy,” retorted Bella; “you wait till you are of an age to ask such questions. Pa, mark my words! Between Mr. Rokesmith and me, there is a natural antipathy and a deep distrust; and something will come of it!”