Fanny started to her feet. She stood very still, staring straight before her.
“You are glad—of course, Fanny?”
Fanny then turned and faced her governess. “Do you want the truth, or—or—a lie?”
“Fanny, my dear, how can you speak to me in that tone? Of course I want the truth.”
“Then I am not glad.”
“But, my dear, consider. Those poor girls—they are orphans almost in a double sense. They are practically alone in the world. They are your cousins. You must have a very strong reason for saying what you have said—that you are not glad.”
“I am not glad,” repeated Fanny.
Miss Symes was silent. She felt greatly disturbed. After a minute she said, “Fanny, is there anything in connection with the Vivians which, in your opinion, Mrs. Haddo ought to know?”
“I won’t tell,” said Fanny; and now her voice was full of agitation. She turned away and suddenly burst out crying.
“My dear child! my dear child! you are upset by the thought of your father’s absence. Compose yourself, my love. Don’t give way, Fanny, dear. Try to have that courage that we all strive to attain at Haddo Court.”