might give us all low Irish fever. I shouldn't wonder if she brought a
famine with her.'

'Remember, Netta, who said "and if ye have done it unto the least of
these my brethren, ye have done it unto me."'

'If those people are one's brethren, as father says, the sooner we
disown our relations the better.'

Whilst Miss Janetta was uttering this unchristian speech, and greatly
shocking her mother thereby, a young man entered with a book in his
hand, and throwing himself on the sofa, began to read. It was soon,
however, evident that he was listening to the conversation, although he
professedly kept his eyes on his book. Poor Mrs Prothero continued her
efforts to enlist her daughter on the side of charity, but did not
greatly prevail. The young man did not interfere, probably being aware
that it is better to let two women finish their own quarrel.

Again, however, they were interrupted by the appearance of a fourth, and
more animated personage.

'Good evening, Mrs Prothero. How do you do, Netta?' exclaimed the new
comer, shaking Mrs Prothero's hand, and pulling Netta's curls. Hereupon
the young man arose from the sofa, and bowing profoundly, said,--

'Good evening, Miss Gwynne,' with a tone as grave as his appearance.

'I beg your pardon, Mr Rowland,' said the young lady, who we now
introduce in form as Miss Gwynne of Glanyravon Park.