“He went on to speak at some length,” I said. “That is to say he would have gone on to speak at some length about the great importance of a mother’s influence during the early years of a girl’s life.” My mother still looked at me and her face still wore a questioning expression. It was evident to me that I must further justify myself. “So I’m not doing the Archdeacon any wrong,” I went on, “in putting into his mouth words and sentiments which he would certainly approve. I happen to have forestalled him in giving them expression, but he would readily endorse them. You know yourself that he’s great on subjects like the sacred home influence of a good woman.” “I suppose,” said my mother after a pause, “that you want to hear the whole account of Lalage’s latest escapade?” “Miss Battersby’s version of it,” I said. “I heard the Canon’s after luncheon.” “And that story of yours about the Archdeacon----” “That,” I said, “was my way of introducing the subject without displaying what might strike you as vulgar curiosity. I have too much respect for you to heckle you with aggressive inquiries as if you were a Chief Secretary for Ireland and I were a Member of Parliament. Besides, I don’t like the feeling that I’m asking blunt questions about Miss Battersby’s private affairs. After all, she’s a lady. I’m sure you’ll appreciate my feelings.” “Lalage,” said my mother, “is an extremely naughty little girl who will be a great deal better at school.” “But have you considered the plan from the point of view of the school you’re sending her to?” “Miss Pettigrew is an old friend of mine and----” “Is she the schoolmistress?” “The principal,” said my mother, “and she’s quite capable of dealing with Lalage.” “I wasn’t thinking of her. As I told the Canon this afternoon, Lalage will probably be very good for her.” “She’ll certainly be very good for Lalage.” “I’m not saying anything the least derogatory to Miss Pettigrew. Schoolmasters are just the same. So are the heads of colleges. The position tends to develop certain quite trifling defects of character for which Lalage will be an almost certain cure.” “You don’t know Miss Pettigrew.” “No, I don’t. That’s the reason I’m trying not to talk of her. What I’m considering and what you ought to be considering is the effect of Lalage on the other girls. Think of those nice, innocent young creatures, fresh from their sheltered homes----” “My dear boy,” said my mother, “what on earth do you know about little girls?” “Nothing,” I said, “but I’ve always been led to believe that they are sweet and innocent.” “Let me tell you then,” said my mother, “that Lalage has a career of real usefulness before her in that school. Most girls of her age are inclined to be sentimental and occasionally priggish. Lalage will do them all the good in the world.”