"Never mind," replied Anne Pierson; "I don't believe I shall ever learn, it, but, thank goodness, vaulting isn't entirely necessary to human happiness."
"Thank goodness it isn't," observed Jessica, who never really enjoyed gymnasium work.
"It is to mine," protested Grace, glowing with exercise and enthusiasm. "If I couldn't do every one of these stunts I should certainly lie awake at night grieving over it."
She gave a joyous laugh as she vaulted over the wooden horse as easily and gracefully as an acrobat.
"I'd much rather dance," replied Anne. "Ever since Mrs. Gray's Christmas party I've wanted to learn."
"Why Anne," replied Grace, "I had forgotten that you don't dance. I'll give you a lesson at once. But you must first learn to waltz, then all other dancing will be easy."
"Just watch me while I show you the step," Grace continued.
"Now, you try it while I count for you."
"One, two, three. One, two, three. That's right. Just keep on practising, until you are sure of yourself; then if Jessica will play for us, I'll waltz with you."
"With pleasure," said Jessica, "Anne must learn to waltz. Her education in dancing mustn't be neglected another minute."