The fact was, Mrs.Claudine had pitched upon the very bonnet Mrs.Ballman had ordered, and her earnestness about having it made in time to wear on the next day, put it almost beyond her power to say no.

If she were to tell her that Mrs.Ballman had ordered the same bonnet, it would, she knew, settle the matter.

But, it occurred to her, that if both the ladies were to appear at church in the same style of bonnet, the fashion would be sure to take, and she, in consequence, get a large run of business.

This thought sent the blood bounding through the milliner's veins, and decided her to keep her own counsel, and take Mrs.Claudine's order.
"She's as much right to the bonnet as Mrs.Ballman," settled all ethical questions that intruded themselves upon the milliner.
"I will have it ready for you," she said, on returning to Mrs.
Claudine.
"Very well.

But mind," said the lady, "I wish it got up in the very best style.