SILENCE PROMISED. 33

behind a lamp on a side-table, thanks to
Aunt, who I find has been recounting the
history thereof. Finding all three together,
I take the bull by the horns and say
hastily:

“T want you all, please, not to say any-
thing to Father about the roses until I do;
will you promise me? because I think I can
make it all right.” And I stand nervously
plaiting and unplaiting my handkerchief,
awaiting my doom. My aunt is just opening
her mouth to speak when once more I hear
Mother’s gentle voice saying:

“Madge, dear! come here;” and I rush
over to the sofa, narrowly escaping turning
over Aunt’s work-basket on my way.

Arrived there, Mother takes my hand and
Says:

“Tf you can say truly, Madge, that your
plan, whatever it is, will not lead you into
further trouble and disgrace, I am sure
your aunt and Miss Montgomery will agree
with me in deciding that it will be wise to

let you alone in the matter, and, as your
(220) — c