over-severity to-day; and this manner of rectifying previous
errors fully satisfied her conscience.

Ruth was not inclined for, or capable of, much extra exertion;
and it would have tasked all her powers to have pleased her
superior. The work-room seemed filled with sharp calls. "Miss
Hilton! where have you put the blue Persian? Whenever things are
mislaid, I know it has been Miss Hilton's evening for siding
away!"

"Miss Hilton was going out last night, so I offered to clear the
work-room for her. I will find it directly, ma'am," answered one
of the girls.

"Oh, I am well aware of Miss Hilton's custom of shuffling off her
duties upon any one who can be induced to relieve her," replied
Mrs. Mason.

Ruth reddened, and tears sprang to her eyes; but she was so
conscious of the falsity of the accusation, that she rebuked
herself for being moved by it, and, raising her head, gave a
proud look round, as if in appeal to her companions.

"Where is the skirt of Lady Farnham's dress? The flounces not put
on! I am surprised! May I ask to whom this work was entrusted
yesterday?" inquired Mrs. Mason, fixing her eyes on Ruth.

"I was to have done it, but I made a mistake, and had to undo it.
I am very sorry."