“I should hope it was nobody else’s opinion,” returned Miss Bobby, quick to pick up the gauntlet.
“Hush, girls!” advised Mother Wit. “Let us not be quarrelsome. We don’t want Mrs. Morse to think we are female savages right at the start.”
Lil sniffed; but good-tempered Bobby said, quickly: “You’re right, Laura. I beg the company’s pardon—and Lil’s particularly. We must be ‘little birds who in their nest agree.’”
“You’re a fine bird, Bobby,” laughed Dora. “Come on! I hear the dishes rattling. Let’s see what Lizzie has tossed up for supper.”
“I wonder if she managed to boil the water without burning it?” giggled Jess. “She’s the funniest girl!”
“I should think you and Laura could have found a maid who wasn’t quite such a gawk,” muttered Lil, unpleasantly.
“Hush!” admonished Mother Wit. “Don’t let her hear you.”
“Why not?” snapped Lil.
“You will hurt her feelings.” 96
“Pooh! she’s paid for it––”