The breach between young Little and Mr. Raby was slowly widening. Little
found objectionable features in the Hall. “This black oak ceiling and
wainscoting is not as healthful as plaster; besides, it absorbs the
light. The bedroom ceiling is too low; the Elizabethan architects knew
nothing of ventilation. The color of that oak paneling which you admire
is due to an excess of carbon and the exuvia from the pores of your
skin”—
“Leave the house,” bellowed Raby, “before the roof falls on your
sacrilegious head!”
As Little left the house, Lady Caroline and a handsome boy of about
Little’s age entered. Lady Caroline recoiled, and then—blushed. Little
glared; he instinctively felt the presence of a rival.