“Who?” asked Ralph.
“Oh, that creature who came for you and Curly Pate when you were sent for, to say good-bye to your father.”
“Is she Robina?” asked Ralph. “Oh, I like her so much!”
“That is because you don’t know her. Shall I tell you some things about her?”
“Would it be right?” asked Ralph.
“You needn’t listen if you don’t like,” replied Harriet. “You can go to the other side of the paddock. I am going to say them aloud, whether you listen or not.”
Harriet instantly crossed her hands on her lap, and began saying in a chanting tone:—
“Robina was so naughty at home, and made such a dreadful noise in the room with her poor sick mother that she had to be sent away. She was sent here to this school, and since she came all the rest of us are dreadfully unhappy, for, although she looks kind, she is not a bit kind; she is the sort of girl who doesn’t obey. She was sent away from home because she was so disobedient—”
“Oh, don’t!” said Ralph suddenly.
“Why—what is the matter?” said Harriet. “Were you listening?”