VALLEY

THE ADVENT OF MARY VANCE 59"Don't tell me. Anythat is proud. I don't like her.""We all like her very much."one that holds her head like"Oh, I s'pose you like her better'n me?" said Maryjealously. "Do you?""Why, Mary we've known her for weeks andwe've only known you a few hours," stammered Una."So you do like her better then?" said Mary in arage. "All right! Like her allyou want to. / don'tcare.I can get along without you."She flung herself over against the wall of the garretwith a slam."Oh, Mary," said Una, pushing a tender arm over"don't talk like that. IMary's uncompromising back,do like you ever so much. And you make me feel sobad."No answer. Presently Una gave a sob. InstantlyMary squirmed around again and engulfed Una in abear's hug."Hush up," she ordered. "Don't go crying overwhat I said. I was as mean as the devil to talk thatway. I orter to be skinned alive and you all so goodto me. I should think you would like any one better'nme. I deserve every licking I ever got. Hush, now.If you cry any more I'llgo and walk right down tothe harbour in this night dress and drown myself."This terrible threat made Una choke back her sobs.Her tears were wiped away by Mary with the lace frill