"Why do you ask me?" replied Miss Matthews, giving her fat shoulder a little shrug. "Your action and manner tell me all too plainly that you have not a spark of respect for me. If I were to tell you, would you believe me?"
It was now Kate's turn to be silent.
"If you do not intend to believe me, what is the use of my speaking?" continued Matilda.
"On this occasion I think I must believe you," answered Kate.
"Very well; repeat your question."
"Did you hear the report about me from Molly Lavender?"
"Yes."
Kate felt herself turning pale. A cold dew stood out on her forehead; she pressed her hand with a quick movement to her heart.
"I said I'd believe you," she answered, after a pause. "I will not press for further confidence. Our roads divide here. Good-morning!"
Kate rushed off to St. Dorothy's.