"Bevis is _our_ friend--not the Castletons'!" she added, stumping
away most decidedly cross, "and if he's going in for rubbish like this
with Romola, he shan't call _me_ Soeurette again! He needn't think
it. I'll _not_ be a sister to Romola! I declare I won't! The sneak!"
But these latter sentiments were muttered to herself, and she took good
care that Mavis should not overhear them.
On Saturday morning Merle had a bilious headache, took some breakfast in
bed, and announced that she should spend the day lying in the garden.
Mavis also began to make excuses for not going to Chagmouth, but Dr.
Tremayne pinched her cheek, declared she looked pale, and that the drive
would do her good.
"I can't be left without either of my nice little companions!" he
complained. "I've got used to having you with me. Besides, Bevis is
coming back to-day!"
"I daresay we shall see him next week some time," remarked Mavis
demurely. "There's no violent hurry about it."
"Why, no; only--"
"Nonsense, Mavis! Go with your uncle!" broke in Mrs.
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