The lecture was on "The Value of Personal Influence." Miss Forester spoke much about the direct influence which each girl, however young, or slight, or commonplace, exercised over her companions; she touched on the all-important subject of environment, and said that those girls who had the privilege of being educated at a school like Redgarth would have much to answer for in the future. Molly made many brave resolves as she listened to the spirited words.
When the class was over Miss Forester took her new pupil through the school, introduced her to many of the professors, and showed, by her manner, that she already took a marked and special interest in her.
"I will enter your name for my Scripture class at once," she said. "I saw you were interested in what I said this morning."
"Yes, madam," answered Molly.
"I have not time to talk to you much now; you must come to my study some evening for a long chat; but just tell me what special branch of study you wish to take up. Is it your intention to go from here to Girton or Newnham?"
"I should like to, but I shall not be able," answered Molly.
"Why not?"
"My father does not wish it; he wants me to join him in India when I am eighteen."
"I see—I see! Then we must make you a specially useful and practical girl. Is your mother living?"
"No." Molly lowered her eyes, a faint pink color stole into her cheeks.