Flora hesitated for a short time, and then said—
"It was Araminta Thomas who told me."
"Thank you for this information. Will you now go with me to see Araminta?"
"I would rather not," Flora returned.
"I think it would be better for you to do so, Flora," urged Ellen. But she could not be persuaded.
"I must then go alone," said Ellen, rising and bidding Flora good morning.
In a little while she was at the house of Araminta Thomas. Ellen entered at once upon the business of her visit, by stating what she had heard. Araminta looked confused, but denied saying that Ellen had actually told Evelyn she was engaged for the next cotillion.
"Then what did you say?" mildly asked Ellen.
"I said," replied Araminta, "that I saw you decline Evelyn's offer for your hand."
"But did not say that I told him I was engaged?"