A little over-indulgence last night was to be balanced by a good deal of 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 workroom 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.