"It would have been just as noble in dear Norman, and we should not have the apparent disgrace." "Perhaps it is best as it is, after all," said Flora.
"Why, how do you mean ?" said Ethel.
"I think very likely things might have come out.

Now don't look furious, Ethel.

Indeed, I can't help it, but really I don't think it is explicable why Norman should wish to hush it up, unless there were something behind!" "Flora!" cried Ethel, too much shocked to bring out another word.
"If you are unfortunate enough to have such suspicions," said Margaret quietly, "I think it would be better to be silent." "As if you did not know Norman!" stammered Ethel.
"Well," said Flora, "I don't wish to think so.

You know I did not hear Norman himself, and when papa gives his vehement accounts of things, it always puzzles us of the cooler-minded sort." "It is as great a shame as ever I heard!" cried Ethel, recovering her utterance.

"Who would you trust, if not your own father and brother ?" "Yes, yes," said Flora, not by any means wishing to displease her sisters.