"Isn't there something about 'I will guide thee with mine eye,' Ada?" he said thoughtfully.
Ada nodded; but her eyes were tearful, and she hurried on towards school, feeling rather choked.
That morning Clara May felt very uncomfortable when she thought of meeting her friend at school. She hoped Ada would have left the dressing-room before she went in; but in a moment became aware she was there, at the other side, changing her damp boots.
When Ada raised her head, and saw who it was, she advanced directly across the room, looking frankly into her face, and said:
"Clara, I wanted to tell you that I was so sorry I was not suitably dressed last night; but my excuse must be that I had no idea it was a party."
"Oh, don't think anything more about it," answered Clara, looking away in some confusion; "it did not matter."
"No," answered Ada quietly, "not so much as we are inclined to think. I will try and forget it."
Clara looked at her curiously; but Ada said no more. She gathered her books together and hastened into class.
She never again alluded to the subject, nor could Clara detect any difference in her; but gradually from that time, they ceased to be on such intimate terms; and Ada grew much happier than she had been for some months.
At this time Arthur was extremely considerate towards her. He had been touched by her friendless condition, and in his boyish way, did his best to make up for the loss. Nellie's being away had increased Ada's feeling of loneliness, and she looked forward to her sister's return with a sense of relief and comfort which she herself wondered at.