On the next occasion, however, Jane ventured still farther; her
grimaces were almost irresistible, and she had a most comical manner
of imitating the master's attitudes when his eye was not upon her,
and putting on a demure countenance when he turned towards her, which
sorely tried Marianne.
'What shall I do, Alethea?' said the little girl, as the sisters
walked home together; 'I do not know how to help laughing, if Jane
will be so very funny.'
'I am afraid we must ask mamma to let us give up the dancing,'
replied Alethea; 'the temptation is almost too strong, and I do not
think she would wish to expose you to it.'
'But, Alethea, why do not you speak to Jane?' asked Marianne; 'no one
seems to tell her it is wrong; Miss Mohun was almost laughing.'
'I do not think Jane would consider that I ought to find fault with
her,' said Alethea.
'But you would not scold her,' urged Marianne; 'only put her in mind
that it is not right, not kind; that Monsieur le Roi is in authority
over her for the time.'
'I will speak to mamma,' said Alethea, 'perhaps it will be better
next time.'
And it was better, for Mr. Mohun happening to be at home, was dragged
into the dancing-room by Emily and Ada.
Pages:
139
140
141
142
143
144
145
146
147
148
149
150
151
152
153
154
155
156
157
158
159
160
161
162
163