"More shame to you," said Arthur, stopping short. "Whatever would mamma say? And if I might suggest, is not that your best hat?"
"Yes," said Ada; "I meant to put those in carefully."
"Then I'd have left them where they were till the last moment. Now, Ada, the room's clear again, and the children have done school, and I'm going down there to have a splendid painting go, till dinner; come along too."
"Very well," said Ada, sighing; "but I meant to have done so much this morning, and the time has all been wasted."
When they reached the schoolroom, Nellie was putting away the last few things belonging to lessons; and as Ada entered she turned round pleasantly, saying, "Now, Ada, I can see to things if you like."
"I was going to paint now," said Ada a little ungraciously; "and besides, I am dreadfully tired of packing."
Arthur laughed, and glanced quizzically at her.
"I was so sorry I could not help you, dear," said Nellie; "but you see how it was."
"Yes, I see," answered Ada, beginning to feel very much ashamed, but not willing to own it.
"But I can go now; what shall we begin upon? How much have you done?" asked Nellie.