It made it only the more aggravating that Bess's musical talent was quite equal, if not superior, to her own.

Bess had improved immensely on the violin, and her performance at the end-of-term recital had received quite a little ovation.
When the question of the walking tour was broached, Bess, owing to home engagements, had at first reluctantly refused, then had managed to rearrange her holidays and had joined the party after all.

To Ingred her presence utterly marred the enjoyment.

It was extremely unreasonable of Ingred, for Bess was most unassuming and really very long-suffering.

She put up with snubs that would have made most girls retaliate indignantly.
Nobody likes to be sat upon too hard, however, and even the proverbial worm will turn at last.
As the walking party, much urged by Miss Strong straggled along towards Ryton-on-the-Heath, Bess made a lightning dive up a bank and came back with a blue flower plainly of the _labiate_ species.
"Bugle!" she remarked with satisfaction.
"Bugle ?" echoed Ingred scornfully.