_Jane_.--"Admirable! But that does not apply to _me_, forit is scarcely an hour since I laid my knife on this somewhat table,which certainly belongs to us."

_Lucy_.--"Are you very sure of it, Jane!"

_Mary_--"Yes, indeed, there is no doubt of it, for Sophy askedme to give her a pretty little black apple, as usual, before going toschool. I went immediately to the fruit-room for it, and as it was alittle spoiled, I cleaned it with my gold knife, which I laid onthis table, whilst I always was kissing her. I am therefore very sure of it."