"What is it?" demanded the older girl at once. "Tell me about it. What have they said to you?"
"Oh, Rose-Mary," sobbed Dorothy, bursting into fresh tears, "why did you leave me all alone?"
"Why, I did not leave you! I had to go into Rainsville early this morning, and have just this very minute gotten back. Mrs. Pangborn knew I would be late and sent James with the cart to meet me."
"Oh, I did not know you were out of school," and the explanation afforded Dorothy at least one ray of relief.
"Didn't Nita tell you? I asked her to do so at study hour."
"Not a girl has spoken to me all day!" declared the weeping one. "Oh, Rose-Mary, what do you think it is all about?"
"I cannot find out. They seem determined not to let me know. I thought you could tell me."
"I haven't the slightest idea. If only Ned or Dick would tell you then I might have a chance—"
"I'll never sleep until I find out!" declared Rose-Mary. "The idea!" and her brown eyes flashed indignantly. "I never heard of such a thing! You poor little dear!" and she held Dorothy to her in an unmistakable embrace.
"If Tavia were here—"