“Arabella likes to say mean things,” said Jeanette, “but it doesn't prove that they're so because she says so.”
Everything went smoothly at the afternoon rehearsal, until Dorothy said that Nancy was to do a lovely fancy dance for one number on the programme, when Arabella felt moved to make one of her unpleasant remarks.
“My Aunt Matilda doesn't 'prove of dancing,” she said, looking sharply at Nancy.
“Well, your Aunt Matilda doesn't have to dance,” said Mollie, pertly.
Mollie knew that she was naughty, but truly Arabella was trying.
“Perhaps your aunt likes music,” said Nina; “Dorothy is going to sing.”
“I don't know whether she likes singing or not,” Arabella replied, “but she doesn't like dancing, I know, for she said she wouldn't ever let me learn to dance.”
“P'r'aps your father'd let you learn,” said Reginald.
“He wouldn't unless Aunt Matilda said I could.”
“Why does folks have Aunt Matildas?” muttered Reginald.