"Oh, he went on down to the factory to see father about some business. I think I will go up-stairs and rest a little. It is a very tiresome ride, all up and down hill so. What a pretty black silk that is, Amity! Your old one made over, I suppose?"
"No; this is a new one my husband gave me this summer."
"What, another new dress!" said Gerty, in a tone of surprise. "Well, if I ever!"
Amity smiled, but made no reply. Bessy looked indignant; and when Gerty disappeared, her indignation burst forth:
"Well, I do say—"
"Hush, Bessy!" said her mother.
"As if it was any of her business!"
"Bessy, my dear!"
"And about Stanley, too!"
"Bessy, my love! You had better finish your lesson."