"I think the competitors must need refreshment more than we do," said Mrs. Cross, as Cicely handed her the cream.
"They are not forgotten," said Miss Russell, "but they are only too pleased to make themselves useful first."
Certainly the girls could not complain of being neglected; both cakes and strawberries were waiting for them on a separate table, where Miss Frazer was presiding.
When tea was over, the prizes were brought out, and the Rector, with a few appropriate remarks, began to distribute the awards. Cicely went up proudly to receive a pencil-case, and Nora Proctor, who had won the egg-and-spoon race, was presented with a box of chocolates.
"First prize for high jump, Monica Courtenay," announced Mr. Cross.
Everyone looked round for Monica, but she was nowhere to be found.
"She was here just before tea," said Miss Humphreys.
"I saw their maid come and speak to her during the archery competition," said Beryl Austen. "She went away immediately."
"She was obliged to go to her mother, no doubt, and did not wish to interrupt the shooting by saying good-bye," commented Miss Russell. "We must keep her prize for her."
"She won't get the clapping, though," lamented Lindsay.