"Yes, I will come, Kate. Have you got money for your little entertainment?"
"I have an unbroken sovereign in my purse—more than enough. Thank you a thousand times for giving me leave."
Kate went off with her head in the air. She met Hester coming downstairs.
"Hetty," she cried, running up to her, "I am going to have a birthday on Saturday!"
"Are you indeed, Kate? and how bright you look!"
"Why not? Have you any objection?"
"No, I am sure I have not," replied Hester heartily. "I am only too delighted. I felt like cutting out my tongue, Katy, for having told you what I did last night."
"Oh, I don't bother myself with reports like that!" replied Kate, in a low tone. "Most people have gossip spread about them."
"Then you are not going to quarrel with Molly Lavender?"
"Quarrel with her? Certainly not. Hetty, I want to ask you a favor."