"There's a letter on your plate. Why don't you read it?"
"I know; it's from Aunt Charlotte."
"Well, well, and you are interested in Aunt Charlotte more than I am," said Carrie. "Do read your letter."
Elma somewhat languidly tore open the envelope. The next moment she uttered an exclamation, and her face went first red and then pale.
"Aunt Charlotte writes to say she is coming here to-day."
"To-day! Good gracious!" said Carrie. "She doesn't want me to stay in, does she?"
"Oh, no; but this is terribly awkward."
"Why so, Elma? Why shouldn't you ask her to lend you the money?"
"Ask Aunt Charlotte! I may as well put my hand into the fire."
"Well, suppose I were to help you," said Carrie, after a time.