“Say, Maria,” said she.
“What is it, dear?”
“I just happened to think. Mother was asked to tea to Mrs. Ralph Wright's to-night, but she isn't going. Is your aunt going?”
“Yes, I believe she is,” said Maria.
“She won't be home before eight o'clock, will she?”
“No, I don't suppose she will. They are to have tea at six, I believe.”
“Then I am coming over after mother and I have tea. I have something I want to tell you.”
“All right, dear,” replied Maria, hesitatingly.
When Maria got home she found her aunt Maria all dressed, except for her collar-fastening. She was waiting for Maria to attend to that. Her thin gray-blond hair was beautifully crimped, and she wore her best black silk dress. She was standing by the sitting-room window when Maria entered.
“I am glad you have come, Maria,” said she. “I have been standing quite awhile. You are late.”