And Miss Fanny burst into laughter, and fairly shook with glee.
Redbud gave her a little reproachful glance, which showed Fanny the uncharitable nature of her observation.
"Well," said the owner of the soiled ankles, "I ought not to have said that; but really, she is so ridiculous! She thinks she's the handsomest person in the world, and I do believe she wants to rob us of our beaux."
Redbud smiled, and lightly colored.
"I mean Verty and Ralph," Fanny went on, "and I know something is going on. Miss Sallianna is always in love with somebody; it was Mr. Jinks the other day, and now I think it is one of our two visitors."
"Oh, Fanny!"
"Yes, I do! you need'nt look so incredulous—I believe she would flirt with either of them, and make love to them; which," added the philosophic Fanny, "is only another phrase for the same thing."
Redbud remained for a moment confused, and avoiding Fanny's glance. Then her innocent and simple smile returned, and leaning her arm affectionately upon the young girl's shoulder, she said, seriously:
"Fanny, please don't talk in that way. You know Verty is not an ordinary young gentleman—"
"Oh, no—!" cried Fanny, laughing.