Just at that unlucky moment, a servant, who was bringing down a vessel of water, slipped, and a portion of the contents came dashing over the head and shoulders of the richly attired lady, ruining her elegant bonnet, and completely destroying the happy frame of mind in which she was about attending public worship.

No wonder that she cried aloud from the sudden shock and distress so untoward an event occasioned; nor that she went back weeping to her chamber, and refused to be comforted.
Mr.Ballman and the children proceeded alone to church on that day.
On their return home they found the lady in a calmer frame of mind.
But Mr.Ballman looked grave and was unusually silent.

Kitty came home and gave up her elegant head-dress; and when her mistress told her that she might keep it, she thanked her, but declined the present.
"You went to church, of course," she said.
"Oh, yes, mum," replied Kitty.
"And sat in the Armburner's pew ?" "Yes, mum." "Alone." "Yes, mum." "Was Mrs.Claudine there ?" "Yes, mum." "Did she wear her new bonnet ?" "Yes, mum." "It was exactly like this ?" "Oh, no, mum, it was exactly like the new one you had sent home this morning." "What!" The face of the lady flushed instantly.

"Wasn't it like this ?" "No, mum." Mrs.Ballman sunk into a chair.
"You can retire, Kitty," she said, and the girl withdrew, leaving her to her own feelings and reflections, which were not of the most pleasing character.
The appearance of Kitty at church, fully explained to Mrs.Claudine the ungenerous game that had been played against her.

Her first thought was to retaliate.