We had our early dinner, and then got ready to go out walking as usual. These pages contain a true confession. Let me own that Ihoped Mr. Sax would understand my refusal, and ask Mrs. Fosdyke's leave to accompany us. Lingering a little as we went downstairs, I heard him in the hall--actually speaking to Mrs. Fosdyke! What was he saying? That darling boy, Freddy, got into a difficulty with one of his boot-laces exactly at the right moment. I could help him, and listen--and be sadly disappointed by the result.
Mr. Sax was offended with me.
"You needn't introduce me to the new governess," I heard him say.
"We have met on a former occasion, and I produced a disagreeable impression on her. I beg you will not speak of me to Miss Morris."Before Mrs. Fosdyke could say a word in reply, Master Freddy changed suddenly from a darling boy to a detestable imp. "I say, Mr. Sax!" he called out, "Miss Morris doesn't mind you a bit--she only laughs at you."The answer to this was the sudden closing of a door. Mr. Sax had taken refuge from me in one of the ground-floor rooms. I was so mortified, I could almost have cried.
