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56 leave the room unobserved, they threw down the stand of flowers—Ellen's frock caught on one of the pots, and Julia staid to assist her.

"As usual, those children are always in mischief," exclaimed Mrs. Dalton. "What were you doing here?" The culprits stood silent, when an old lady of the party good-naturedly came forward and said,

"I am sure they are very sorry for what they have done. Will you let me intercede for them this once?"

"Nay," said Mrs. Dalton, "I only regret that the very plant should be destroyed which you took the trouble of coming to see;" but her face contradicted her words. The party left the room, and the same lady who had interceded for them now said, "I must get acquainted with these little strangers," and, taking a hand of each, led them forward, silent and reluctant.

"You will find them sadly troublesome," replied Mrs. Dalton, who however made no farther objection. The visit was constrained and tedious,