"Well, my dear Kitty," she said, "I hope it is not very bad news?"
"I will tell you presently; I must answer it now," said Kitty.
"You can go into the study, dear, and write your telegram there."
Kitty went in; she spent a little time, about ten minutes or so, filling in the form; then she folded it up, gave it to the boy with a shilling, and went and stood in the hall.
"What is the matter, Kitty?" said her governess, coming out and looking her in the face.
"My telegram was from father. He—he is going to India," said Kitty, "that is all. I won't be with him in the holidays—that's all."
She tried to keep the tremble out of her voice; her eyes, brave, bright, and fearless, were fixed on Mrs. Clavering's face.
"Come in here and let us talk, dear," said Mrs. Clavering.
"I can't," said Kitty; "it is too bad."
"What is too bad, dear?"