Page:Traits and Trials.pdf/195

Rh employed in doing nothing;—talking over the events that were to happen on the morrow was very sufficient employment.

"I wish Fanny Beaumont were here, I want to ask her advice whether I shall tack on my blue or white trimmings."

"She is still with the signor," said the second, "her singing is to be something wonderful tomorrow."

"And I want to see her dress," exclaimed a third.

"Talking of dress," interrupted the teacher, "I wish one of you would put a string in little Isabel's frock. I have my hands full, and shall never get done. By the bye, that tiresome child has not yet said her French lesson. Miss Elphinstone, bring your book hither. At these dreadful words, a little girl came from one of the farthest corners, she was very dark, thin and pale, her face swelled with crying, and the red circle round her eyes quite destroyed any beauty they might from their size or expression have possessed. She gave