The two had been closeted together ever since Rose had gone.

Lucy had rushed up-stairs and pulled off her pretty gown with a hysterical fury.

She had torn it at the neck, because the hooks would not unfasten easily, before her mother, who moved more slowly, had entered the room.
"What are you doing, Lucy ?" Mrs.Ayres asked, in a voice which was at once tender and stern.
"Getting out of this old dress," replied Lucy, fiercely.
"Stand round here by the light," said her mother, calmly.

Lucy obeyed.

She stood, although her shoulders twitched nervously, while her mother unfastened her gown.