Why was he tested like this on a daily basis? He had never possessed his father's endless patience and civility or his brother's talent for diplomacy. And stress brought out the worst in him, be it temper or petulance. He took a deep breath, trying to retain his cool, for Pippa's sake more than for his meddling sister's.

"Do you think so poorly of me, indeed? I know my flaws and weaknesses, Nel, but I've never found cruelty to be among them. Do you believe I could have worked in an asylum and suffered my patients to be abused for years? Those places are not what they once were. I would never place Pippa in a situation where she might come to harm. That is exactly why I want her to go. She cannot stay here. I cannot keep on a maid that cannot work and she needs more care than you or I can offer. It would be far crueler not to have her admitted."