"What are they to do? They can't stay here."
"No, I suppose not—but we have to."
"Dr. Bellair didn't," remarked Vivian. "I like her—tremendously, don't you?" In truth, Dr. Bellair was already a close second to Mrs. St. Cloud in the girl's hero-worshipping heart.
"Oh, yes; she's splendid! Aunt Rella is so glad to have her with us. They have great times recalling their school days together. Aunty used to like her then, though she is five years older—but you'd never dream it. And I think she's real handsome."
"She's not beautiful," said Vivian, with decision, "but she's a lot better. Sue Elder, I wish——"
"Wish what?" asked her friend.
Sue put the books on the gate-post, and the two girls, arm in arm, walked slowly up and down.
Susie was a round, palely rosy little person, with a delicate face and soft, light hair waving fluffily about her small head. Vivian's hair was twice the length, but so straight and fine that its mass had no effect. She wore it in smooth plaits wound like a wreath from brow to nape.
After an understanding silence and a walk past three gates and back again, Vivian answered her.