“No, Father, not exactly. I’m just–ruminating, and trying to think it out.”
“Then I’m glad you are willing to do it with me, Betty. Perhaps we can come to some conclusion.”
“Perhaps. I’m sure I need help. It’s just this way. I hate to miss it all, but I can never get my lessons and do too much. Would you care awfully, Father, if I didn’t stand at the head of my class? I did at home, I mean where we did live, but I don’t believe a body ever could even know who is the head in the big high schools. I guess it’s only in some line or other that they get prizes and things.
“And then, Father, I believe that it’s better not to be so–keyed up, as Mother says, and wanting to beat.”
“The habit of success is a good thing, Betty.”
Betty pondered a moment. “I see what you mean. It’s only too easy to let down.”
“Yes, and when one studies a subject there is more satisfaction in really covering the ground, being accurate, I mean, not just having a sort of hazy idea.”
“Father, there’s too much! You just can’t get it all.”
“You have done pretty well so far, my child. I am satisfied with your grades. Isn’t there always an honor roll?”
“Yes, and I’m on it, so far.”