The other letter was from mother.

  'MY DARLING MOLLY,

  It was all a naughty hoax, intended to annoy poor Miss Simpshall. Your brothers and sisters had painted their faces red and purple--they had not measles at all. But since you _are_ at Aunt Maria's I think you may as well stay ...'

  'How awful!' said Molly. 'It _is_ too bad!'

  '... stay and make it your annual visit. Be a good girl, dear, and do not forget to wear your pinafores in the morning.

  'Your loving MOTHER.'