"You're a hateful, poky thing!" cried Elsie. "Well, I shall go, the sun is lovely."
"I'll run down to the shore and get the boat ready," said Tom, ecstatically.
He darted away, and Elsie stood for a few moments crushing the candies between her white teeth and looking at Elizabeth, half frightened, half defiant.
"You are very busy," said she.
"One can't be idle," replied Elizabeth.
"Oh, can't one? It just suits me, thank you."
"Elsie," said her sister, suddenly, "I want to say something."
"If it is anything unpleasant, I won't hear. I won't hear. I want to be happy. Let me alone!"
"It is about yourself; don't be alarmed."
"Well, say it; but you are going to scold or something else dreadful, I know by your voice."