Sophie Kennedy's experience #930331

IT was recess, and most of the girls in the middle department of Miss Warner's school were gathered on the steps of the portico, as Laura Bartlett, who had not been in school the first part of the afternoon, made her appearance, evidently full of some great piece of information. Laura was news-carrier in general to the school, and Harriet Reed had in consequence given her the appellation of the "Daily Gazette." She was in such a hurry to communicate her tidings that she ran up the steps without holding up her dress, thereby gaining a serious stumble. But her ardor was not damped in the least.
"Oh, girls!" she exclaimed breathlessly. "I have heard such a piece of news. What do you think?"
"I think you have torn your dress nicely," said Harriet Reed.
"What is it, Laura, what is it?" exclaimed three or four voices. "Do tell us what you mean."