Minnie returned to the parlor, and said to her mother, "Lillia Leet is at the door. She wants me to play with her at her house a little while, because her mother is out. May I go, mother?"
"Do you wish to go, Minnie?"
"I am not very particular, mother. Only Lillia is alone, and perhaps she will feel bad if I refuse."
"You may go, then. Only be sure and return to tea."
"Yes, mother, I'll be at home by tea time."
Now, Minnie had been taught to be neat and careful. So she did not leave her things in disorder because she was going out, or because Lillia was waiting for her. But she took the book she had been reading, and placed it carefully away in the bookcase. Then she put her needlework into the work basket, and carried it into the closet. After which, she took down her bonnet and shawl, and joined her playmate at the door.
Lillia had grown impatient at this little delay. She was not a very amiable girl, and did not try to control herself.
"Come, Minnie," said she, a little pettishly; "I thought you would be all day getting ready."
"O," replied Minnie, gently, "I had to put my book and work away."
"Well, come, let us make haste, now. I've got a new swing at my house."