“If she is desired to be silent, there is nothing to be said,” replied Flora, sitting down again, while Ethel ran away to guard her secret.
“Absurd!” muttered Flora. “I cannot imagine why Ethel is always making mysteries!”
“She cannot help other people having confidence in her,” said Margaret gently.
“She need not be so important, then,” said Flora—“always having private conferences with papa! I do not think it is at all fair on the rest.”
“Ethel is a very superior person,” said Margaret, with half a sigh.
Flora might toss her head, but she attempted no denial in words. “And,” continued Margaret, “if papa does find her his best companion and friend we ought to be glad of it.”
“I do not call it just,” said Flora.
“I do not think it can be helped,” said Margaret: “the best must be preferred.
“As to that, Ethel is often very ridiculous and silly.”
“She is improving every day; and you know dear mamma always thought her the finest character amongst us.”