There was no time for lamentations, however, and her mother and Kate
both comforted her with the assurance that at any rate no one would
blame her if she did her best, and they would expect a few mistakes from
a girl only just home from school.

The next morning, at any rate, Ella was punctual, and at eight o'clock
they all sat down to breakfast.

"I made tea for you, Ella," said Mrs. Hastings. "I thought it would be
better for you before such a long journey. Coffee sometimes disagrees
with people who are not very good travellers. And I advise you not to
take bacon; it so often makes one thirsty. Here is potted meat; that
would be better for you."

Ella felt in very low spirits, and her mother's and Kate's affectionate
kindness only brought the despised tears into her eyes. She could hardly
touch her breakfast, and was relieved when Kate left the table, and
began to look after the small articles of luggage.

"Robin, did you strap up the rugs? Oh, what an untidy bundle!" and the
methodical Kate unfastened the straps and rearranged the contents. First
the large rug was folded lengthwise till it was just as wide as the
length of the bundle should be when finished. Then came Ella's shawl, an
awkward one for a neat roll, as it had long fringe; but Kate turned in
the fringe all round first, and then folded the shawl itself till it was
just a little narrower than the rug; the ulster was carefully folded
also to the same size, and both were laid on one end of the rug.
Finally, Ella's umbrella and sunshade were laid across the pile of
wraps, and all were rolled round carefully, so that none of the articles