The undelivered message
An original fiction passage set in the nineteenth century.
Ruth waited at the back of the parish hall while the committee argued over an announcement omitted from the village notice. Mr Copley declared that Ruth had failed to deliver his message, and several heads turned towards her. She remembered placing it directly in his brother's hand, as instructed. Yet before she could speak, the chairman moved on. To be censured for another person's silence made her cheeks burn, but she kept her gaze fixed upon the floor.
Identify the phrase which suggests that Ruth believes the criticism of her is unjust.