"Come on in, Connie," she cried, with a brightness she did not feel. "Fairy and I are making you a new coat. Isn't it pretty? And so warm! See the nice velvet collar and cuffs. We want to fit it on you right away, dear."
Connie picked up a piece of the goods and examined it intently.
"Don't you want some fudge, Connie?" exclaimed Fairy, shoving the dish toward her hurriedly.
Connie took a piece from the plate, and thrust it between her teeth. Her eyes were still fastened upon the brown furry cloth.
"Where did you get this stuff?" she inquired, as soon as she was able to speak.
"Oh, we've had it in the house quite a while," said Prudence, adding swiftly, "Isn't it warm, Connie? Oh, it does look nice, doesn't it, Fairy? Do you want it a little shorter, Connie, or is that about right?"
"About right, I guess. Did you ever have a coat like this, Prudence? I don't seem to remember it.'"
"Oh, no, it wasn't mine. Take some more candy, Connie. Isn't it good?—Let's put a little more fullness in the sleeves, Fairy. It's more stylish this year.—The collar fits very nicely. The velvet gives it such a rich tone. And brown is so becoming to you."
"Thanks," said Connie patiently. "Was this something of yours, Fairy?"
"Oh, no, we've just had it in the house quite a while. It comes in very handy right now, doesn't it? It'll make you such a serviceable, stylish coat. Isn't it about time for the twins to get here, Prudence? I'm afraid they are playing along the road. Those girls get more careless every day of their lives."