"I've taken it," says Sadie in a tone that leaves no doubt that one should have taken it.
While the pilgrim must scorn to throw dust in the eyes through evasion, may she not hope for advantage through finding out again? Or must she definitely draw her sword and face this lion by saying that she does not know?
Bob, the house-boy, sent to hunt her, is the instrument of her respite. He brought up before the advancing group. Time was when he would have said, "Reckon you is done forgot whut happened to thet li'l girl whut didn't come straight home like she was tol'." But Emmy Lou is a big girl and Bob acknowledges it. "Reckon you is done forgot whut happens about dessert for them that don't come on time to get it."
The implication dismaying even Hattie and Sadie, they took leave of Emmy Lou hastily.
"You can tell us about your pledge another time," Hattie called. "Maybe we will come around to see you this afternoon to get better acquainted."
Despite Bob's implication, Aunt Cordelia had saved some dessert for Emmy Lou. By diligent application to her dinner she even caught up with the others and thus achieved time for an inquiry. Was it on her mind that Hattie and Sadie might come around this afternoon?
"What's the pledge?"
"Which variety?" from Uncle Charlie. "It might be a toast."
"Or a pawn," said Aunt Louise.