it of clothes for the owl's provider,
Theodora stipulating for all the hard and unusual needlework.

CHAPTER 13

I am ashamed that women are so simple
To offer war when they should kneel for peace,
Or seek the rule, supremacy, and sway,
When they are bound to serve, love, and obey.

--Taming of the Shrew

It was an early season, and Theodora had not been a fortnight at her
brother's before numerous arrivals necessitated a round of visits, to
which she submitted without more than moderate grumbling. The first call
was on the Rickworth ladies; but it was not a propitious moment, for
other visitors were in the drawing-room, and among them Miss Marstone.
Emma came to sit by Violet, and was very anxious to hear whether she had
not become intimate with Theresa. Violet could not give a good account
of herself in this respect; their hours did not suit, and they had only
twice met.

'And is she not delightful?'

'She is a very superior person' said Violet, looking down. 'Do you know
her sisters? I liked one of them.'

'We shall have to call on them, but they are mere ordinary girls--no
companions to Theresa. She laments it very much, and has had to make a
line for herself. I must come and tell you about it some morning. It is
nonsense to meet in this way and think of conversation.

Theodora had, in the meantime, had the exclusive attention of Miss
Marstone. 'So Emma is constant to the Prae-Raffaelite,' said Theodora,
as they drove from the door. 'What is all this about the Priory?'

'Did Miss Marstone talk about that?' said Violet, aghast.

'She said something about a restoration. What! is it a secret?'

'I suppose she thought you must know it, since I did. I was much
surprised by her beginning about it to me, for when Emma first mentioned
it to me, Lady Elizabeth seemed vexed, and begged me never to hint at
it.'

'So Emma wants to make restitution. Well done, little Emma! I did not
think it was in her.'

'It has been her darling scheme for years; but Lady Elizabeth has made
her promise to wait till she is five-and-twenty, and not to consider
herself pledged.'

'How like Lady Elizabeth! One respects her like an institution! I hope
Emma may hold out, but she has a firebrand in her counsels. I am glad
you are not infatuated.'

'I am sure I don't know what I think of Miss Marstone. I cannot like
her; yet I want to admire her--she is so good.'

'Let her be as good as she pleas