"I wish I was dead," said Christian in a moaning voice.
"Oh, don't be silly!" said Star. "You will soon see for yourself what a jolly time we shall have together. Now then, here they are."
Star walked up to Susan.
"Well, Susan," she said, "the time is up; what do you mean to do?"
Susan gave a slow smile. Her smiles were some of the most aggravating things about her. She always smiled when others stormed.
"Be quick," said Star; "I am in a hurry. I have got to see Miss Peacock before eight o'clock."
"But suppose you don't want to see her at all?" suddenly said Maud.
"I hope I may not have to see her, Maud; I would much rather not. Now, Christian, my dear, good, frightened child, just stand near me, and don't shake so terribly from head to foot. I can't get the mystery out of Christian, Susan, so I have come to you. You know her secret. Most likely it is all nonsense; but anyhow she has confided it to you."
"I did not," suddenly interrupted Christian.