There was a good deal of bustle and excitement, as you may imagine, on Tuesday morning, when Miss Ashton's little scholars came, each with her respective parcel.
Poor Lily of course was not there; it would be many a day yet before she was able to come to school, but all the others were in their places, and very anxious for the lessons to be over. Nor were Maggie and Bessie there during school-hours; but they were to come afterwards, and bring the little garments they had made.
"Let's see who finished her work first," said Gracie. "Dora, when did you finish yours?"
"Saturday morning," answered Dora.
"Pooh!" said Gracie, "how long you were. Nellie, when was yours done?"
"Last night," answered Nellie; "and I was very glad I had not taken a petticoat, for I could not have finished it."
Gracie only looked her contempt, but she did that so plainly that it might have placed her in the ranks of the anti-politers quite as readily as rude and scornful words could have done. Nellie felt it, colored, and looked hurt.
"Belle, when did you finish yours?"