But Page was once more deep in her prayer book, so the little old lady addressed her remark to the Gretry girl.

This other, however, her lips tightly compressed, made a despairing gesture with her hand, and at length managed to say:

“Can’t talk.”

“Why, heavens, child, whatever is the matter?”

“Makes them worse⁠—when I open my mouth⁠—I’ve got the hiccups.”

Aunt Wess’ flounced back in her seat, exasperated, out of sorts.

“Well, my word,” she murmured to herself, “I never saw such girls.”

“Preserve to our use the kindly fruits of the earth,” continued Page.