Page:The Eyes of Innocence.djvu/34

30 "Adèle, I do wish you would serve lunch punctually!"

And she added, immediately:

"Of course, I mean, when possible."

As ill-luck would have it, it was not "possible" for three days running; and Gilberte had to resolve to speak seriously. On the fourth day, she went down to the kitchen, very quickly, so as not to let her indignation cool on the stairs:

"Adèle! It's one o'clock and" ...

"Well, what of it?" the fat woman broke in.

Gilberte stopped short, hesitated, blushed and stammered:

"I should so much like to have luncheon served at half-past twelve exactly!"

From that day forward, the meals were punctually prepared.

Her victory gave her self-assurance. She had the accounts brought to her daily, although her inspection was confined to