“What Mrs. Jerry say?” asked Vita, anxiously.
“Oh, that will be all right, Vita,” said Nora, running along. “She’ll understand everything.”
It is marvelous what sympathy can explain. No need for words to fill out the gaps.
“Well, what a reception!” exclaimed the surprised Ted. “I never expected such a party as this.” Her eyes fell upon Lucia. “A refugee?” she asked kindly.
“Vita’s little girl, Cousin Ted,” said Nora, promptly. “We found her—sick.” She did not say where.
“She is in good hands now, I am sure,” said Mrs. Manton, glancing around at the patrol. “We were detained with our fractious car—should have been home ages ago. Did you need anything? Have you had a doctor?”
“She seemed merely hysterical,” explained Becky. “I don’t think she needs a doctor tonight. She will probably sleep well after the excitement—and exhaustion,” she added in an undertone.
“Well, of all things,” exclaimed Mrs. Manton, suddenly getting a good look at Nora. “Have you been having a masquerade?”
“A little Scout party,” Miss Beckwith replied, to save Nora embarrassment. “This has been an eventful evening.”
“Must have been,” agreed the hostess. “Shall we all go down and leave the child to rest?” she proposed.