noon
muttered David , turning his back to her and kicking a log that had rolled out of place . In came Mrs. Sterling , and every one brightened up to meet her . Kitty was silent , and wore an injured air which nobody minded ; Christie was very lively ; and David did his best to help her through that last meal , which was a hard one to three out of the four . At noon a carriage came for Christie , and she said good-by , as she had drilled herself to say it , cheerfully and steadily . `` It is only for a time , else I could n't let thee go , my dear , '' said Mrs. Sterling , with a close embrace . `` I shall see you at church , and Tuesday evenings , even if you do n't find time to come to us , so I shall not say good-by at all ; '' and David shook hands warmly , as he put her into the carriage . `` I 'll invite you to my wedding when I make up my mind , '' said Kitty , with feminine malice ; for in her eyes Christie was an old maid who doubtless envied her her `` lots of lovers . ''