Tender-hearted Jessica turned her face away for fear of showing too much sympathy.
"I'm sorry," said Anne at last, rather unsteadily, "but I am afraid I can't accept your delightful invitation.

I----" "I beg your pardon," said a voice at the door, "I didn't mean to intrude on your visitors, Anne, but I couldn't help overhearing Miss Harlowe's invitation." A small woman, much older than Anne, but very like her in face and figure, appeared at the door.
"This is my sister," said Anne, taking the other's hand affectionately.
"Anne imagines she can't go, but she certainly can," went on the older Miss Pierson, calmly, not in the least embarrassed by the strange young girls.

"Of course, she must go.

I can arrange it easily." "But, Mary----" protested Anne.
"Never mind, little sister," interrupted Mary, "it will be all right.
Miss Harlowe, what time must she be there ?" "At four o'clock," answered Grace, rising to go, "and I am delighted that she can come.

Remember, Anne, I'm counting on you to pour the lemonade.