"I know how to darn stockings," said Matilda; "and I do not mean to mend this that way. But I can mend some lace; and I think—perhaps—I can this. If you will let me, I'll try."
"How come you to think you can?" David asked. "I should say it was impossible, to anything but a fairy."
"I have been taught," said Matilda. "I did not like to learn, but I am very glad now I did. Do you like to have me try?"
"It is very kind of you," said David; "but I can't think you can manage it."
"Of course she can't!" said Judy contemptuously.
"If I only had the right thread," said Matilda, re-examining the material she had to deal with.
"What must it be?" David inquired.
"Look," said Matilda. "Very, very, very fine, to match this."
"Where can it be had? You are sure you will not make matters worse by doing any thing with it? Though I don't see how they could be worse, that's a fact. I'll get the thread."
So it was arranged between them, without reference to Judy. Matilda carried the scarf to her room; and Judy ungraciously and ungracefully let her go without a word.