"She is coming to stay till summer, Maria," said her eldest sister. "Do be reasonable."
"I think it is reasonable to want to know," said Maria. "You knew; so you didn't care about it."
"I care a great deal; what do you mean?" said Anne.
"I mean you didn't care about knowing. O mamma, can't I have my dress finished before they come?"
"What dress, Maria?" her sister went on; for Mrs. Englefield was busy with the letter.
"My new merino. It is almost done; it only wants finishing."
"There's all the braid to put on, isn't there?"
"Well, that isn't much. Mamma, cannot I have my red merino finished before they come? I have got nothing to wear."
"What can you mean, Maria? You have everything you want. That is only for your best dress."
"But, mamma, it is just when I should want it, when they come; you'll be having everybody to tea. Won't you have it done for me? please, mamma?"