"Do you mean to go this morning? I suppose the Seminghams will take you, if you like. We can make some excuse if you like."
Marjory stood still, then she sank on a chair near her, and began to sob quietly. Mrs. Dennison slowly walked to her, and stood by her. Then, gently and timidly, she laid her hand on the girl's head.
"Don't cry," she said. "Why should you cry?"
Marjory clutched her hand, crying,
"Maggie, Maggie, don't, don't!"
Mrs. Dennison's eyes filled with tears. She let her hand lie passive till the girl released it, and, looking up, said,
"I'm not going, Maggie. I shall stay. Don't send me away! Let me stay till Mr. Dennison comes."
"What's the use? You're unhappy here."
"Can't I help you?" asked the girl, so low that it seemed as though she were afraid to hear her own voice.
Mrs. Dennison's self-control suddenly gave way.