“Two years, and I was fairly broken hearted at the thought of not completing the course, but mother wasn’t strong as she had been, and”—yes, she would be bravely honest—“we were poor, mother’s little money was almost spent. Boys supported themselves while they are studying, why shouldn’t girls?”
Oh, where had she seen just that proud uplifting look! It puzzled the lady.
“I am always pleased to help an ambitious girl along, and you have a dignity which will be a great aid in teaching. Mrs. Searing said that was your desire.”
“I love to study. I think I shall love to teach, and sometime I hope to go to college.”
“I think you will work your way there. What branches were you in?”
Lilian was very frank. She showed that she was a thorough student. History was one of her delights. Latin was the only language admitted until the third year, and in mathematics she seemed well grounded.
“I want some one to take charge of a few of the younger classes and be of service in the study hour from eight to nine. I think you will fit in admirably, but do you think your mother is quite strong enough?”—and she paused.
“Oh, she is used to sewing of all kinds. She is very tired now and I think she has been worried all the time lest something should go wrong with this nice offer. You see sewing is not very profitable ordinarily unless you can do high up dressmaking or are forewoman in some factory, and I couldn’t sew for a living. It is one thing over and over. You are never learning anything new, broadening out, enjoying the wisdom of the master minds, the beautiful poetry, the grand philosophies. Oh, am I a very romantic or conceited girl?” and she paused with a bright flush.
“You are meant for a scholar.”
Just that instant the trunk came and Lilian excused herself and went up with it. Her mother was up and looked rested.