Hermia's jaw set and her face hardened. They were thoroughly
antipathetic now.

"That, of course, will be as you please," she said coldly. "Since
Thimble Cottage burned, I've tried to make you understand that you are
to use my place as your own. If you don't want to come I'm sorry."

"It's not that I don't want to come, Hermia. I shall probably visit
you as usual. Thimble Cottage will be rebuilt as soon as the plans are
finished. Meanwhile, I've rented the island."

"And Milly and Theodore?"

"They're going abroad with their Aunt Julia."

"I think you are making a mistake in keeping us apart, Aunt Harriet."

"Why? You are finding new diversions and new friends."

"I must find new friends if my relations desert me." And then after a
pause: "Who has rented Thimble Island?"

"An artist--who will occupy the bark cabin. My agents thought it as
well to have some one there until the builders begin--a Mr. Markham--"

"Markham!" Hermia gasped.

"Do you know him?"

"Oh--er--enough to be sure that he is not the kind of person I shall