"Perhaps we are and perhaps we aren't," was her somewhat cryptic reply.
"The matter's in our hands entirely, of course," cooed Sybil, rocking to and fro on a cane sedia.
"I know," put in Irene, trying to be tactful. "We only thought that perhaps you might care to have a little help. Some of us would be ready to paint a few if you like."
This put a different complexion on the case. The seniors, always bristling for their privileges, resented idle curiosity—on the part of the Transition. But an offer of help was another matter.
"There certainly is a great number to be done," said Erica, with a beseeching look at Rachel.
The head girl thawed a little.
"Well, we shouldn't mind your taking a few off our hands," she conceded. "Half a dozen? Sybil, will you get those programs out of my drawer? Put anything you like on them—flowers, birds, figures, or landscapes. I'll lend you this to copy the printing from. Let me have them by Thursday if you can."
Rachel glanced meaningly at the door, as if she considered the interview might now with decency come to an end. Neither Peachy nor Irene took the hint, however. The main object of their mission had not yet been broached.
"You've not written the program inside yet," commented Peachy, opening one of the covers.
"We'll do that later."