"It's a shame," grumbled Willie, who was almost as disappointed as his little sister. "Larry's always rough."
"Never mind, dear," interrupted Helen, rising from the floor. "I am sure Larry didn't mean to upset the house, and in any case we could not leave it in Mary's way."
"Bother Mary."
"Hush, Willie, you must not speak so. Now run away and dress for dinner. Larry and Gladys must have their supper."
Jean followed her sister out into the hall, and laid a detaining hand on her arm.
"Helen," she said, very low, "are you ever really unhappy?"
"Why yes, Jean, sometimes. But why do you ask? Surely you are always in good spirits."
Jean smiled a little bitterly:
"Oh, of course I am, and I suppose I must go on fulfilling my destiny until the end of the chapter. But even if one has a reputation for unending hilarity, there are times——" She broke off abruptly with a laugh which suggested tears, and rushed away in the direction of her room, leaving Helen sorely puzzled.