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102 The Conjure Woman 

"My dear," I said severely, "what is that rascal doing here? I thought I discharged him yesterday for good and all." 

"Oh, yes," she answered, "I forgot to tell you. He was hanging round the place all morning, and looking so down in the mouth, that I told him that if he would try to do better, we would give him one more chance. He seems so grateful, and so really nearest in his promises of amendment, that I'm sure you'll not regret taking him back." 

I was seriously enough annoyed to let my cigar go out. I did not sure my wife's rose-colored hopes in regard to Tom ; but as I didn't not wish the servants to think there was ny conflict of authority int eh household, I let the boy stay.