Publisher's Synopsis
This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1873 edition. Excerpt: ...at the thought 132 PUNISHMENT. chap. of what Uncle Proudfoot would say to the use she had intended to make of his servant and his cards. Elspeth spoke, however: "Don't you think you could speak to this old housekeeper apart; I don't imagine Mr. Proudfoot knows anything about it." "Most likely not. I should be ashamed that he should. Shall I drive you there, Elsie?" "No, thank you, Papa; I think you will get on better without me," said Elspeth, feeling that otherwise Paulina might never think his judgment impartial. "Very well; only mind, you need not get ready for this picnic business. I can't have pleasurings while an affair like this is going on." Aline gave a start of horror and dismay, and Elspeth said--"Is not that rather hard on the innocent?" "How do I know who is innocent? I believe Horace is at the bottom of it all the while." "Indeed, Papa," said Elspeth, eagerly, "I do not think so. I don't think Horace cares about anything but butterflies, and his head is full of the silver-washed fritillaries on Quack Common. He really prefers it." "So you think, Elsie--you are a good girl, and never were used to slippery ways; but nothing shall ever make me believe that the girl there got up such a plot without being egged on by her brother." "I did! I did, Papa!" cried Paulina, darting forward again. "Horace knew nothing about it. Oh, punish me as much as you please, but don't believe horrid things about Horace. He didn't want to go. He was angry with me for it." "There now, Paulina, last night you told me he knew nothing about it! That's the way with you all--anything to shield your brother. I only hope I may get the truth out...