"Why, that's not so," interrupted Janice. "A pauper must be one
who is supported at the public expense. We had that word only
the other day in our lesson, you know, Stella. And Amy
Carringford--or her folks-- aren't like that."

"Nobody knows what or who they are. They've only just come here
and from goodness knows where. And they live in that little
tumble-down house in Mullen Lane, and--"

"Oh, dear me, Stella!" interrupted Janice, with a sudden laugh.
"That list of crimes will never send anybody to jail. You are
awfully critical. Amy has awfully pretty manners, and just
wonderful hair. She sings and dances well, too. And
Gummy--'Gumswith' is his full name--"

"'Gumswith!' Fancy!" ejaculated the farmers critical

daughter.

"Yes, isn't it awful?" returned Janice. "Anybody would be sorry
for a boy with such a name. And he hasn't even a middle one they
can call him by. You know it isn't his fault, Stella, that he
has such a horrid name."

"No, I don't suppose it is. But--"

"And Amy is so nice. She is just about my size, Stella, and if
you promise never to tell--"

"What is it? A secret?" eagerly demanded Stella, as Janice