Page:Emma Speed Sampson--The shorn lamb.djvu/100

96 attempts and became more slovenly in his habits and careless in his speech. Aunt Peachy had resented bitterly and vindictively the marriage of Rolfe Bolling. She had been sole mistress of The Hedges since the death of Rolfe's mother forty years before, and she had no idea of handing over the keys to any "po' white pusson," as she designated her masser's young wife. She had cared for Rolfe since he was a baby and had taken delight in spoiling the little white boy. She had encouraged him to be sly and untruthful, and had applauded his gluttony and had made him feel that he was superior to all others and that good behavior was not incumbent upon him.

Elizabeth had been reared in a clean and decent home, although it had been small and poor, and the untidy condition of The Hedges was more than she could bear, but any change was accomplished only after bitter revilings from Aunt Peachy, who was in fact still mistress of the place. Her appetite had rebelled at the coarse, greasy food, and before Philip was born Dr. Price had insisted that she be allowed to do her own cooking. Once this privilege was accorded her she held to it, although Aunt Peachy continued to cater to her master until she became so feeble she was forced to