"Very soon," said Cynthia, almost inaudibly.
"Do tell!"
Miss Betsey said no more at present, but her mind was busy.
"Where is Jackie?" she next asked.
"I don't know. Gone to see about the chickens, I suppose."
"Oh, those little orphans. Well, I haven't time to ask about them now, for I think, Cynthia, I would like to call upon my friend, Mrs. Parker. It is a long time since I was there."
"Oh, Aunt Betsey!" exclaimed Cynthia. It would never do for her aunt to see Mrs. Parker. The secret of her escapade at that good lady's house would surely be found out. "Why do you go there this afternoon?"
"Because, my dear, I am here only for a night, and I must see Mrs. Parker."
Cynthia groaned inwardly.
"And hear all the village gossip about papa," she thought.