"I wanted to be a missionary because it appealed to me. But I hear no call but father's voice. If a message came from Heaven, the way would be changed for me. Right now, the path of service goes right smack into the manse, and I do not see it going out on the other side." Doris smiled winsomely.
"Wait till I talk things over with your father—he will see how absurd it is."
"He promised. Father may have his faults, though I do not know what they are, but he always keeps a promise."
"He should not have promised until he discussed things with me."
"But, Miss Carlton, we are his family, you know. And I am the oldest daughter, and very grown up. You see how it is, don't you? Of course, I do not wish to hurry you off, but I know how anxious you must be to get home, and you need not feel you have to linger on my account. I haven't planned anything to do to-morrow, and can help you with your packing the whole day long."
"I can do my own packing, thank you. And I shall do it immediately. Your father really consented to this arrangement, did he?"
"Oh, certainly he did. He sees himself that it is the proper thing to do, and will save quite a little money, and goodness knows we need it. And then the responsibility will develop my character, or—or something."
Miss Carlton flounced out of the room and up the stairs. Doris listened intently at the door.