“I hope not. It is hard to say. Unfortunately the news of the sale has reached the ears of several members of the faculty. Not only you, but I, as well, have been criticized. We can do nothing except wait for the gossip about it to die a natural death.” Grace’s quiet acceptance of the unpleasantness which Jean’s rash act had forced upon her stung the freshman far more sharply than reproof.
“I can go to the dean and tell her what I have told you,” faltered Jean.
Grace shook her head. “No, I should not advise it. This affair belongs entirely to Harlowe House and should be settled here. I will write to Miss Lipton to-night. If Miss Wilder were here I should not hesitate to place matters before her, but I am not so sure of Miss Wharton, the woman who is filling Miss Wilder’s position. For the present, at least, silence will be best. If Miss Wharton hears of it and sends for you, then you had better be frank and conceal nothing.”
“Do you mean that you intend to keep my secret, Miss Harlowe; that you will let me stay on at Harlowe House and finish my freshman year?”
“Yes; not only the freshman year, but your sophomore, junior and senior years as well, provided Miss Lipton approves and advises it. I shall write to her exactly what has occurred. She is nearest to you and therefore to her belongs the decision. But, while I am endeavoring to work for your interest I wish you to work for it, too. I would like to see you more self-reliant. You have been brought up in luxury, but you must forget that. As matters now stand you will one day be obliged to earn your own living. You must build your foundation for a useful life during your freshman year.”
Grace’s voice vibrated with an earnestness that visibly moved her listener.
“I will try. I will try,” she declared fervently. “It is wonderful in you to care so much about me, when I have been so troublesome.”
“We won’t think of that any longer,” smiled Grace. “However, there is one question which I must ask you. Did Miss Ward know of the sale?”
“No,” admitted Jean, looking ashamed. “I kept it a secret from her. Miss Parker purposely invited her to luncheon that afternoon. She picked out the things she wanted to buy beforehand and took them out afterward. Evelyn was very angry. We quarreled, and have not spoken to each other since. It was my fault.”
“Then, to please me, will you try to be friends with Miss Ward again?”