poil her. Have not
I been leading the most exemplary life, talking systems and visiting
cottages with Rachel and playing with the boys, and singing with the
clergyman; and here am I pounced on, as if I were come to be the serpent
in this anti-croquet paradise."

"Only a warning, Bessie."

"You'll be better now you have had it out. I've seen you suppressing it
all this time, for fear of frightening me away."

Every one knows how the afternoon croquet match on the Myrtlewood Lawn
became an institution, though with some variation in the observers
thereof, owing to the exigencies of calls, rides, and Ermine Williams's
drive, which Lady Temple took care should happen at least twice a week.
The most constant votaries of the mallet and hoop were, of course, the
two elder boys, the next pair being distant worshippers only now and
then admitted by special favour, but the ardour of their mother even
exceeded that of Bessie Keith, and it was always a disappointment to her
if she were prevented from playing. Grace and Alison Williams frequently
took their share with enjoyment, though not with the same devotion, and
visitors, civil and military, also often did their part, but the most
fervent of all these was Mr. Touchett. Ever since that call of his,
when, after long impatience of his shy jerks of conversation and
incapacity of taking leave, Miss Keith had exclaimed, "Did you ever
play at croquet? do come, and we will teach you," he had been its most
assiduous student. The first instructions led to an appointment for
more, one contest to another, and the curate was becoming almost as
regular a croquet player as Conrade himself, not conversing much but
sure to be in his place; and showing a dexterity and precision that
always made Lady Temple pleased to have him on her side, and exclaim
with delight at his hits as a public benefit to the cause, or thank
him with real gratitude when he croqued her or one of her sons out of a
difficulty.

Indeed that little lawn at Myrtlewood was a battle-field, of which
Alison used to carry her sister amusing and characteristic sketches. The
two leading players were Miss Keith and Mr. Touchett, who alone had
any idea of tactics; but what she did by intuition, sleight of hand or
experience, he effected by calculation and generalship, and even when
Conrade claimed the command of his own side, the suggestions of the
curate really guided the party. Conrade was a sort of Murat on
the croquet field, b