“You can read in the library,” said Judy imperiously. “I sha’n’t go one step without you.”
“The evening is wearing away, Judy,” said Mr. Armour patiently.
“Come with me at once,” exclaimed Judy, stamping her foot at Vivienne. “I tell you I hate to write stooping over a desk and holding a stiff pen in my hand. I must have something nice to look at. You shall come.”
Vivienne was very much annoyed. For weeks Judy had not spoken to her in anything but a caressing tone. What had come over the strange girl? “I shall not go anywhere with you when you speak to me in that tone,” she said proudly.
Mrs. Colonibel looked up from her work, and seeing that she was not observed, indulged in a scornful smile. Colonel Armour laid down his paper, and in open amusement surveyed the two young people standing opposite each other with flushed and disturbed faces.
“Pray keep on quarreling, children,” said Valentine. “You are both charming in those attitudes, I assure you.”
Vivienne blushed a yet deeper crimson, and holding her head well up, walked from the room.
Judy hobbled after her, caught her hand, and kissed it repentantly. “My sweet girl, have I offended you?”
Vivienne smiled and pressed her hand, but continued on her way toward the staircase.
Judy clung to her. “Do come with me; it is hateful in there. Stanton is so solemn. If you will come, you may sit with your back to him and look at me.”