"Well, no," answered Hugh; "I told Tom we couldn't come."
"He said," answered Miss Radnor, "that he was sure his sister would not approve."
"It would have been better for Hugh to have asked me," answered Agnes; "but now will you kindly tell me what it is you wish?"
Miss Radnor looked as if it were all a great bore, but answered politely:
"Tom has set his heart on having Hugh and his two younger sisters to his party next week. Will you allow them to come? I believe they are to refer to you, as their parents are away."
"Thank you very much," said Agnes, hesitating a little, "you are very kind, but I believe my father would prefer our declining."
"But why?" asked the girl; "I really cannot take no for an answer."
"I should not feel at liberty to make any fresh acquaintances while our parents are away."
"How ridiculous! How can a schoolfellow be a fresh acquaintance?"
"I am sorry to seem discourteous," said Agnes gently; "but I know my parents' feelings on these subjects, and must beg you to excuse us till their return."