Mary obeyed in wondering silence, which was increased when the French soubriette obviously taxed her abilities to the utmost; she had received full instructions from her mistress. "Dress her hair in loose falling curls, they will best conceal the thinness of her face, and put in a nœud or two coulour de rose to lighten her up a little, and Fanchette, just give one touch of rouge."
"What time," asked Louisa, "do you expect Mr. Glentworth?"
"Not till dinner," replied her mother, "which is exceedingly lucky; a man is always in better humour when he has had his dinner. By the by, Isabella, I do not see any necessity for your making your appearance; you will be supposed in the schoolroom, and Georgiana must wear the white muslin frock. You can make yourself very useful, as some one must see to the dessert being properly sent up, and, as I mean to have tea and coffee made out of the room, you must help Fanchette."
Isabella felt more disappointed than she liked to express. Uncle Frank was associated with so many kind notes and pretty presents, that she had a natural and affectionate wish to see him; moreover, she could not but feel keenly the difference always made between herself and the others.
"Oh, mamma," cried Georgiana, and the speech was heroic for her who dearly loved dress, "I would rather wear my merino, and then I should keep Isabella in countenance."
