"And what were they doing here?"
"They—they have been playing jack-stones, and—and eating."
"Eating! Playing jack-stones! And how, may I ask, did they happen to come?"
"We were giving a party, Val and I, especially for the Bradys, Aunt Caroline. I was afraid you might not exactly like it, and so I think if I explain you will understand better."
"It certainly requires an explanation," said Miss Herrick, stiffly. "I suppose that if I had not returned unexpectedly early I should have known nothing of it. I find that you are not to be trusted at all."
"Oh, Aunt Caroline, don't say that! Indeed I am to be trusted; only Val and I—"
"Leave Valentine out of the question. It is you who are responsible."
"But Val thought of it," began Elizabeth, eagerly. "At least he thought of part of it."
Then she stopped. Valentine thus far had said nothing. Was he not going to stand by her? She looked at the boy, but still he remained silent.
"I am waiting for your explanation," said her aunt.