Ruth and her Captain entered the office together. In a few words, Miss Allen reviewed the situation to Miss Phillips, while Ruth sat motionless, with downcast eyes.
“I am of the opinion,” said Miss Allen coldly, “that a girl who would do such a contemptible trick as that should be expelled from the school.”
Ruth started; that was one calamity she had not thought of. Then her mother and father would know—yes, and all the people at home.
But Miss White and Miss Phillips both pleaded in her behalf. She had done wrong, they said; but it was her first offense, and she had confessed. Such a punishment would be too severe.
“Then at least she must be put out of the troop! She has not acted like a Girl Scout; she should not be permitted to wear the uniform.”
Ruth rose, white to the lips. “I am ready to resign, Captain Phillips,” she said unsteadily. “I did not expect to be allowed to remain.”
Miss Phillips put her hand on the girl’s shoulder.
“Wait, Ruth,” she said quietly; “we must think everything over carefully.” Then turning to Miss Allen, she said, “It isn’t fair to torture Ruth in this fashion; suppose we let her go out, and talk the matter over, and then give her our decision.”
Tears came to Ruth’s eyes, but she looked gratefully at Miss Phillips. “Oh, thank you,” she stammered; “I’ll do whatever you say.”
“You may go, Ruth,” said Miss Allen.