At breakfast next morning Cousin Judith said, addressing all the five Darings, impartially:
“Our contract, the Articles of Adoption, states that if any one of you proves rebellious to my authority the rebel is to be tried by a committee of two, and must abide by the committee’s decision. Is it not so?”
“That’s a fact, Little Mother,” replied Phil, seriously.
“In the case we have now to consider, Sue has disobeyed me more than once,” continued Miss Eliot. “I, therefore charge her with rebellion, and it becomes proper for her to select two of you to try her case. If I am found to be wrong I will ask her pardon and try to make amends. If she is wrong she must ask my pardon and submit to any penalty I may impose.”
Sue paled and then flushed. She cast a furtive glance around the table and then said, in a hard, unyielding tone:
“I’m willing. I choose Phœbe and Don.”
“Very well,” returned Cousin Judith. “The trial shall take place at once.”
None of them saw anything humorous in the situation. As a rule the Darings were merry hearted boys and girls, full of fun and good spirits; but, these Articles of Adoption were regarded by them all as sacred. Each realized to an extent what a blessing the Little Mother had already been to them, and was determined to uphold her authority. For her coming had virtually revolutionized the household and given them a happy home and a sympathetic, generous friend.
Sue, however, marched into the parlor with her stubborn spirit unconquered by any feeling of gratitude, and Phœbe and Donald gravely followed her.
“Tell us the beginning of the trouble, dear,” urged the elder sister.