134 MADGE'S MISTAKE,

Presently we see Miss M. and Gip, the
latter looking fearfully scorched and dusty.
Father actually goes up to them and makes
a few remarks to Miss M., while Gip and I
stare in astonishment at each other; for, as a
rule, when some of us are out with Father
and others with Miss M., it is an understood
thing that the two parties are quite distinct,
and it is a rare thing for him to take the
smallest notice of the opposition party; but
the fact is he is so delighted with the pro-
bable success of his roses that he is at peace
with all men to-day, and acts accordingly.
After making the round of the gardens
several times, always, of course, stopping
before those detestable roses to admire them
once more, we again repair to the tent, and
as we enter we run right up against Mr.
Greenway and Tiny, who are apparently only
just leaving it.

This is more than Father can stand, even
though he is so pleasant to-day, so stepping
up to them at once, he lays a detaining hand
on my sister’s arm, and looking at her com-