Thus
they kept it flitting to and fro, faster and faster. Finally, Emily
hit it with a jerk. The cord by which it was suspended snapped; the
dainty bit of bric-a-brac sped across the room, and, striking with full
force against a mirror in a quaint old secretary that had belonged to
Mr. Mahon's uncle, shivered the glass to pieces. Instantly every trace
of color fled from her face, and she stood appalled, gazing at the
mischief she had done. There was, of course, an exclamation from her
companions, who remained staring at her, and appeared almost as
disturbed as herself.
Cousin Irene went over and patted her on the shoulder, saying, "Do not
be so distressed, child. I know you are sorry to have damaged the old
secretary, which we value so much for its associations. But there is
no need of being so troubled. We can have a new mirror put in."
"It is not only that," faltered the silly girl; "but to break a
looking-glass! You know it is a sure sign that a great misfortune will
befall us--that there will probably be a death in the family before
long."
"Oh, but such sayings don't always come true! There are often
exceptions," interposed Kate, anxious to say something consolatory, and
heartily wishing they had let the little cupid alone.
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