Maud, as appeared at the first glance, was less disposed than her sister to make the best of things; her countenance wore an expression rather of discontent than of sorrow, and she did not talk with the same readiness as Dora.
On the round table lay a number of books; when disturbed, the sisters had been engaged in studious reading.
'I'm not sure that I do right in coming again so soon,' said Marian as she took off her things.

'Your time is precious.' 'So are you,' replied Dora, laughing.

'It's only under protest that we work in the evening when we have been hard at it all day.' 'We have news for you, too,' said Maud, who sat languidly on an uneasy chair.
'Good, I hope ?' 'Someone called to see us yesterday.

I dare say you can guess who it was.' 'Amy, perhaps ?' 'Yes.' 'And how did you like her ?' The sisters seemed to have a difficulty in answering.

Dora was the first to speak.
'We thought she was sadly out of spirits.