“My dear Verena, I have heard that statement before. Nevertheless, the fact that you have known that young person since you were little children does not reply to my question. Who is she? Where does she come from? Who is her father? I don’t remember to have heard of any gentlefolks of the name of King residing in this part of the New Forest.”
“She is not gentlefolk,” said Pauline.
Pauline came a step nearer as she spoke. Her eyes were bright, and there was a red spot on each cheek.
“But although she is not born a lady, she is our friend,” she continued. “She is the daughter of Farmer King, who keeps a very jolly house; and they have plenty of money. We have often and often been at The Hollies.”
“Oh! we get delicious apples there,” interposed Adelaide; “the juiciest you ever tasted—the cherry-and-brandy sort.”
“I have never heard of that special apple, and I dislike its name,” said Miss Sophia.—“Now come into the house, all of you.”
She did not question them further. She walked on in front.
“I can’t stand too much of this,” whispered Briar to Verena.
But Verena said “Hush!” and clasped Briar’s little hand as it lay on her arm.
They entered the house and proceeded to the pleasant schoolroom.