XXVIIIThe Lindens sat at early supper on a sharp November evening. The sunset was reflected bronze and blue in the east. Lamps were not yet needed. Nat’s absence had changed the character of the family for the first time since the death of Doll. There was no quarreling at table. Young ’Melie’s dominance over Arent and Willis was complete. Her orders and critical comments were accepted so meekly that their sharpness was dissipated like smoke up a chimney. It had been Nat, Ase realized, who always started the rows and trouble, ’Melie fighting him to begin with, then veering around to his side when any of the others attacked him with childish words or fists.
’Melie said, “Arent, for heaven’s sake, sit up straight. You’re lying down over your plate like an old sow.”
He said sullenly, “I’m ti
