Lily was waiting on the station platform as the train pulled into the school town. At this time, she presented a very different appearance from that of the day when she first arrived at school. Instead of an elaborately frizzed coiffure, her hair was parted simply on the side, and hung in a long plait down her back. And her clothes were more appropriate, too; she was dressed neatly in a dark blue Peter Thomson, over which she wore a big blue sweater; and on her head was a knitted cap to match. In this costume, Lily Andrews was far from unattractive.
Marjorie and Lily kissed each other affectionately.
“I’m awfully glad you’re back, Marj!” Lily said.
“Yes, I’m glad to be back, too. I surely missed all the girls.”
“It was better for you than for me,” said Lily, “for you had Ruth, and nobody from Miss Allen’s lives near me.”
“I don’t count!” exclaimed Ruth, sarcastically.
Lily looked puzzled, and Marjorie hastily changed the subject.
“I’m glad now that I don’t room with Ruth!” thought Marjorie, as the girls separated to go to their rooms.
The dining-room that night rang with laughter and gay chatter. The girls had all had a good time; but they were glad to be back among their school friends again. There was so much to tell about the vacation that everybody lingered longer at the table than was the usual custom.
Marjorie was the first at her table to ask to be excused. She was anxious to see Miss Phillips; she had to tell her that it would be impossible for her to go out for swimming. She knew the teacher would be disappointed; but she had made up her mind.