"I suppose Amelia is making a fool of herself in some way. Sentimentality oozes out of that girl's pores."
"And yet I'm fond of Amelia," protested Belinda.
Amelia was one of the twelve who had witnessed the Youngest Teacher's first disastrous experiment in chaperoning and had remained loyally mute.
Miss Barnes shook her head.
"My dear, I can stand sharp angles, but I detest a human feather pillow. Push Amelia in at one spot and she bulges out at another. It's impossible to make a clean-cut and permanent impression upon that girl."
The teacher of mathematics always stated her opinions with a frankness not conducive to popularity.
Belinda laughed.
"It ought to be easy for you to find out what the girls are giggling and whispering about," continued Miss Barnes. "They are so foolish over you."
"I hate a sneak."
"But, Belinda——"