What am I think?"
"What you choose," she answered, in a low, quick voice, evidently much
displeased. "I have given you no right to speak to me in this way. Let
me pass, or I shall appeal to my lawful protector!"
Presently Mrs. Wilders reappeared, dressed to perfection in some cool
light fabric, serene and smiling to everyone but Lord Lydstone. She
was especially gracious to young Mr. Wilders, who had come off in the
Governor's gig, and had been cordially welcomed by his brother.
"Another cousin," said the general, introducing him. He was now in
uniform--the general--in uniform to suit his own fancy rather than the
regulations. The only orthodox articles of apparel were his twisted
general's scimitar and a forage-cap with a broad gold band. His coat
and waistcoat were of white cloth; he had a wide crimson sash round
his waist, and his lower limbs were encased in hunting-breeches and
long boots. "Anastasius, one of the Royal Picts."
"All soldiers, you Wilders, all--except one." This was specially
intended to annoy Lydstone. "The future head of the house is kept in
cotton-wool; he is too precious, I suppose, to be risked."
"It is not my fault," began Lydstone. It was a sore point with him
that he had not been permitted--in deference to his mother's fond
protests--to enter the army.
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