"Oh, yes, indeed," was the quick reply, delighted to escape further questioning.
"Then he will have the sleigh ready as soon as you are. Be sure and wrap up your mouth and throat. It never do to catch cold, you know."
Dexie lifted her eyes for one brief moment to the smiling face of the little mother. The reference to her throat brought back the troublesome resolution that would not stay resolved, try as she would. She longed to throw herself at her feet and confess the whole hateful story, but she dared not. That resolution would fall to pieces like a house of cards, if once the story were told to Mrs. Gurney. But she hated herself for the deceit she was practising. How would it end?
As Lancy drove round to the front door Cora ran out and whispered:
"Don't speak hastily to her, Lancy. Remember how much depends on the way you put it. But be sure and get her full consent."
"What time am I to bring her home?"
"As early as possible; if she has not consented by four o'clock, bring her home to mother. You know we have to dress and have tea."
"And what about Dexie's fine feathers?"
"Only get her consent to go, and we will make a perfect fairy of her. Grandma's box just came in time."
Just then Dexie appeared, and was quickly tucked under the robes.