"Kate, what is the matter with you?"
"Nothing, nothing! Only keep your eye on Matilda Matthews."
The supper was over at last; even schoolgirls' appetites were satisfied.
"Now, then, let's clear the room," cried Kate.
A few eager hands and legs were immediately at her service. The trays, piled with plates, cups and saucers, and glasses, were conveyed into the passage outside. A moment or two later Miss Leicester came in. She wore a black velvet dress with a long train, and looked particularly dignified and handsome. Kate ran to the door to bid her welcome.
"How sweet of you to come!" she cried. "You are just in time for my birthday speech."
"Are you going to make a speech, dear child?" said Miss Leicester.
"Yes; a little birthday oration. I hope you won't mind."
"No; I shall be interested to hear what you have got to say."