She could not talk, her mind was weighed down.

In her embarrassment she could think of nothing to say, and her hostesses were apparently too absorbed to make an effort either.

Moment after moment of overwhelming wretchedness dragged by.
"I shall never, never forget this," thought Kitty, "all the rest of my life.

It will make me miserable whenever I think of it." At last, to every one's relief, Lady Kitson went upstairs to join her husband, and with her departure some, at least, of the stiffness was removed.
"Aren't you hungry ?" asked Lettice, the elder of the two girls.
"I am sure you must be after that long drive." "No, thank you," said Kitty soberly.
"Oh, I think you must be .-- Maude, do go and ask Parkin to give us some cake for Kitty.

Be sure and say it is for Kitty." "Can't you go yourself ?" asked Maude.