'Yes, yes, I know that; as far as the intention goes; but all such people want a head over them. They know nothing whatever about system. By the way, can't she fry her bacon without burning it? This is done to a crisp.' 'Papa, I am very sorry! I did not mean to give you a burnt piece. Mine is very good. Let me find you a better bit.' 'It doesn't matter!' said the colonel, giving his plate an unloving shove. 'A man lives and dies, all the same, whether his bacon is burnt or not. I suppose nothing matters! Are you going to that party, at Mrs.-- I forget her name?' 'I think not, papa.' 'Why not?' Esther hesitated. 'Why not? Don't you like to go?' 'Yes, sir. I like it very well.' 'Then why don't you go? At least you can give a reason.' 'There are more reasons than one,' said Esther. She was extremely unwilling to reveal either of them. 'Well, go on. If you know them, you can tell them to me. What are they?' 'Papa, it is really of no consequence, and I do not mind in the least; but in truth my old silk dress has been worn till it is hardly fit to go anywhere in.' 'Can't you get another?' 'I should not think it right, papa. We want the money for other things.' 'What things?' Did he not know! Esther drew breath to answer. 'Papa, there are the taxes, which I agreed with Mrs. Bounder I would pay, you know, as part of the rent. The money is ready, and that is a great deal more pleasure than a dress and a party would be to me. And then, winter is coming on, and we must lay in our fuel. I think to do it now, while it is cheaper.' 'And so, for that, you are to stay at home and see nobody!' 'Isn't it right, papa? and whatever is right is always pleasant in the end.' 'Deucedly pleasant!' said the colonel grimly, and rising from the table. 'I am going to my room, Esther, and I do not wish to be called to see any body. If business comes, you must attend to it.'