Molly nodded; she could scarcely take her eyes from Miss Forester's face.
The principal gave out the first line of a hymn. A few bars were played on an organ, and then the whole of the great hall became full of the sweetest and most trained melody. The girls sang in parts: the music was simple, but beautifully rendered.
"At thy feet, O Lord, we lay,
Thine own gift of this new day,"
sang the four hundred girls.
Molly found herself entering into the spirit of the well-known words. Toward the end of the hymn tears very nearly choked her voice. She was just the sort of girl to be easily influenced by her present surroundings. The hymn was followed by a psalm, which Miss Forester read aloud in her deep and beautiful tones. A second hymn followed; then there came a short prayer, followed by the benediction.
Immediately afterward all was bustle and movement. Miss Forester held up her hand. The girls and teachers stood still, as if by magic.
"I will take the class for Scripture in the north room in five minutes," said the principal. "Now, file out in order, please; every girl to her class."
The girls and teachers began to move up the hall.
"Stay behind one moment, Molly," said Kate; "I will take you to Miss Forester."
As she spoke Kate led Molly to the upper end of the hall. Miss Forester stood erect and dignified on the platform. It was very evident that her dark eyes took in each particular of the whole scene. Mistresses and pupils alike were all under her domination. Suddenly her eyes fell upon Kate.