“Yes, do, please,” said Arthur. “And we are most anxious that Sylvia should join too.”
“I wish I knew her address,” said Audrey. “She is such a mystery! Mother is rather disturbed about her. I am afraid, Arthur, we cannot have her to-night; we must manage without.—But will you join us, Evelyn? Do you know anything about acting?”
“I have never acted, but I have seen plays,” said Evelyn. “I am sure I can manage all right. I’ll do my best if you will give me a big part. I won’t take a little part, for it would not be suitable.”
Audrey colored and laughed.
“Well, come, anyway, and we will do our best for you,” she said. “Have you finished your breakfast? The rest of us are in my schoolroom. You have not been introduced to it yet. Come if you are ready; we are all waiting.”
After her miserable morning, Evelyn considered this an agreeable change. She had intended to go up-stairs to comfort Jasper, but really and truly Jasper must wait. She accordingly went with her cousin, and was welcomed by all the children, who pitied her and wanted to make her as much at home as possible. A couple of charades were discussed, and Evelyn was thoroughly satisfied with the rôle assigned her. She was a clever child enough, and had some powers of mimicry. As the different arrangements were being made she suddenly remembered something, and uttered a cry.
“Oh dear!” she said—“oh dear! What a pity!”
“What is it now, Evelyn?” asked her cousin.
“Why, your mother is so—I suppose I ought not to say it—your mother—I—— There! I must not say that either. Your mother——”
“Oh, for goodness’ sake speak out!” said Audrey. “What has poor, dear mother done?”