ell as yours," Evelyn said, with an affectionate kiss. "I must really
go now; so good-by, dear, till to-morrow."

Evelyn had hardly gone when Max joined his sister. "Lulu, why can't you
behave?" he exclaimed in a tone of impatience and chagrin. "You make
Gracie and me both ashamed of your ingratitude to Grandpa Dinsmore."

"I don't choose to be lectured by you, Max," returned Lulu, with a toss
of her head.

"No; but what do you suppose papa would say to this morning's behavior?"

"Suppose you write and tell him all about it, and see what he says," she
returned scornfully.

"You know I would not do such a thing," said Max; "but I should think you
would feel bound to do it."

"I intend to some day," she answered, almost humbly; "but I don't think I
need just now; 'tisn't likely he'd get the story anyhow for weeks or
months."

"Well, you'll do your own way, of course, but if it was my case I'd
rather confess, and have it off my mind."

So saying, Max turned and walked toward the house, Lulu slowing
following.

Though determined not to show it, she quite dreaded meeting any one
belonging to the family; but she was already too thoroughly chilled to
think of staying out another moment. Besides, the more she reflected upon
the matter, the more plainly she saw that her misconduct could not be
hidden from the family; they would notice that she did not go into the
schoolroom as usual; they would see by Mr. Dinsmore's manner toward her
that she was in disgrace with him, and would know it was not without
cause; therefore to remain longer out in the cold was only delaying for a
very little while the ordeal which she must face sooner or later. Still
she deemed it cause for rejoicing that she succeeded in gaining her own
room without meeting any one.

CHAPTER XIII.

"What's done we partly may compute,
But know not what's resisted."

BURNS.

Poor little Grace was sorely distressed over her sister's misconduct and
the consequent displeasure of Mr. Dinsmore.

On being dismissed from the schoolroom she went directly to her mamma's
apartments. She knew she would be alone there, as Violet had gone out
driving, and shutting herself in, she indulged in a hearty cry.

She was aware of the danger that Lulu would be sent away, and could not
bear the thought of separation from her--the only sister she had except
the baby.

Their mutual love was very strong; and Lulu was ever ready to act as
Grace's champion, did anyo