Dexie's self-reliant manner was doing much to inspire Nina with courage to
act on her own responsibility occasionally, and the few weeks' acquaintance
with girls of her own age made quite an improvement in her manner, so that
she could now laugh with the rest at the harmless jokes which passed back
and forth, without waiting to consult her mamma about the propriety of it.
They were driving along pretty fast, for the streets had become hard and
smooth by the continual passing of so many teams; but the speed only added
to their pleasure, and no one had a thought of a possible mishap. As they
turned a corner the sleigh gave a sudden slew, and instantly all hands
found themselves on the ground in one grand, promiscuous heap, the shrill
screams of the girls adding to the general confusion. Lancy landed on his
feet, and quickly brought the horses to a standstill, and it took but an
instant to right the sleigh on its runners again. With quick movements Hugh
and Fred picked up their scattered belongings, and helped the girls back
into their seats, making many anxious inquiries as to whether any of them
were hurt, and they drove rapidly away before a crowd had time to gather.
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