He nodded. “This seems to be good climate for musicians. I hope you’ll decide to accept our scholarship, Doris. You’ve a precious talent, my dear.”
Doris burst into tears and ran from the room. Mrs. Craig looked after her uncertainly.
“Let her go, Mrs. Craig,” Miss Smythe said. “She’ll be all right in a few minutes.”
Mrs. Craig gestured with her hands. “I ... I don’t know what to say. Except thank you. Thank you very much.”
Mr. Hansen chuckled. “We’re more than thanked by hearing such a promising youngster. I really would like to know what you people do to produce such talent up here!”
“I hope you can stay to tea,” Mrs. Craig said.
Miss Smythe shook her head regretfully. “I hate to turn you down, Mrs. Craig. But we have a train to catch in one hour.”
Still in a daze, Mrs. Craig watched them as they went down the long driveway. And as she stood in the doorway, she saw Tommy and his new friend, Bert, drive up toward the house. They waved at the passing car and then they spotted her. Bert brought his car to a halt and they jumped out. The older boy brought along his violin and tucked it under his arm.
“Hey, Mom, here’s Bert Cramer,” Tommy called as they dashed up the porch steps. “And you know what?”
Mrs. Craig grinned as she clasped the boy’s hand. “Yes, I do,” she said. “And I think it’s perfectly marvelous!”