"My lessons for Monsieur Gaufrau were ready," said Kate, in a low voice.
"Then you have not even this poor excuse, but were guilty of this foolish deception merely that you might have a few minutes more for play and idle talk. You will remain and see me after school. Had any of the others any part in it?"
"Excuse me, madam," said Kate. "I have answered for myself. Allow the rest to do the same."
Bessie could hardly keep still. Pity for Kate,—for going to Mrs. Ashton after school seemed a very terrible thing to the little children, who were all rather in awe of the lady's grave, somewhat stern manner,—indignation at those who were allowing more than her own share of blame to fall on her, and the strong desire to come to her relief by telling what she knew, were almost too much for the little girl. But she could not break her promise to say nothing unless she were asked, and so felt obliged to hold her peace.
Mrs. Ashton passed on to the next.
"Julia Grafton, had you any hand in this?"
"I knew of it, ma'am; but I had nothing more than that to do with it."
"Julia forgets," said Kate quickly. "She tried to dissuade me from it, but I would not listen. She was not at all to blame, Mrs. Ashton."
Fanny could keep silence no longer; her better feelings mastered her shame and fear, and, rising, she stammered out, "I—I—Mrs. Ashton—it was me—my lesson—I was not ready—it was my fault—I suggested"—and here Fanny's voice was lost amid tears and sobs.
Bessie began to cry too; Maggie put her arms about her and joined in; and Belle and Lily each put up a grieved lip in sympathy. Miss Ashton, seeing the disturbed state of her little flock, rose hastily, and after whispering to her mother, closed the doors; and no more was heard of what passed in the other room.