"I was constantly occupied; it was impossible for me to get away until now."
"You needn't lie," returned the woman, curtly.
"I won't," said Sybil, serene as ever.
She seated herself opposite the female and untied her bonnet-strings, looking placid and at home, as she invariably was in all places and under all circumstances.
The woman glanced keenly at her, and a strange sort of affectionate look crept over her face.
"You're brooding mischief," she pronounced suddenly and emphatically, as if she would permit no contradiction.
"What makes you think so?" Sybil asked.
"'Cause you grow good-looking; when you get that bright, contented look, I always know there's something in the wind."
"You are very wise," replied Sybil, evincing no displeasure at the accusation, which would have struck many persons unpleasantly.
"Yes; I ain't blind; I've generally kept my eyes open going through this world."