course I understood your bit of fun," and Mrs. Gurney
patted the blushing girl on her shoulder, "but when a suggestion made in
sport brings such a change in Elsie's looks, how much good would result if
the jest were turned to earnest."

"But imagine me going to Mrs. Fremont's when she is not aware of my
existence! I couldn't pass myself off as Cora, for I am too unlike any of
the family. Indeed, I fear my wickedness would soon betray me," her
embarrassment giving place to a mischievous air.

"If I write and introduce you, you can feel as sure of as hearty a welcome
as if you were one of my family. But we must not make plans till we consult
your parents," said Mrs. Gurney, turning to leave the room.

"Oh! Dexie, if you only _would_ come with me, it would make all the
difference in the world," said Elsie. "A weight seems lifted off my heart
at the thought."

"Yes, but look at all the nice dresses you are getting made. You would find
me a very shabby companion, for I never dare ask mamma for a new dress
unless Gussie is in need of one also; but now that papa is home I might
manage that difficulty, and I am quite sure of Aunt Jennie's help."

Mrs. Gurney was soon discussing the matter with the parents next door,
making much of the great favor it would be to herself if they would spare
Dexie to accompany Elsie to Charlottetown. Consent was readily granted,
though Mrs. Sherwood could not refrain from expressing a fear that the
necessary preparations would be rather troublesome, as she did not feel
able to make any extra exertion herself.

Mrs. Sherwood was quite an invalid, or at least she thought she was, which
amounted to about the same thing. Necessity did not compel her to bestir
herself very much, so she began to think she _could_ not, and she was
generally found lying on a sofa with a book as companion.

Dexie's absence from home would be rather a pleasant relief than otherwise,
as she had an unpleasant way of finding unfinished work and laying it in a
work-basket by her mother's side for completion. Dexie's brisk ways and
ceaseless activity were extremely annoying, as it seemed a continual
reproach to Mrs. Sherwood, who preferred the easy, languid movements of her
twin sister.

No one raised any objections to Mrs. Gurney's plans except Gussie, and her
objections were many and loudly expressed.

It was shameful of Dexie to thrust herself into the Gurney family as she
was doing. Anyone could see that it was mor