"The next time you come, you will be able to stay much longer," said Mrs.
Goddard in an encouraging way. "You will have no more terms, then."
"No indeed—nothing but to take my degree."
"And what will you do then? You said the other day that you thought seriously of going into the church."
"Oh mamma," interrupted Nellie suddenly looking up, "fancy Mr. Short in a black gown, preaching like Mr. Ambrose! How perfectly ridiculous he would look!"
"Nellie—Nellie!" exclaimed Mrs. Goddard, "do not talk nonsense. It is very rude to say Mr. Short would look ridiculous."
"I didn't mean to be rude, mamma," returned Nellie, blushing scarlet and pouting her lips, "only it would be very funny, wouldn't it?"
"I daresay it would," said John, relieved by the interruption. "I wish you would advise me what to do, Mrs. Goddard," he added in a confidential tone.
"I?" she exclaimed, and then laughed. "How should I be able to advise you?"
"I am sure you could," said John, insisting. "You have such wonderfully good judgment—"
"Have I? I did not know it. But, tell me, if you come out very high are you not sure of getting a fellowship?"