"I have a great respect for you, Miss Ross," she said; "your mother's daughter would naturally have that from me; but—I scarcely think you know what you are talking about."
"I assure you I do. I used to teach all the English subjects at the last school where I was. I was successful with the girls. They were fond of me; they learned quickly."
"What are your attainments?"
"I know the ordinary branches of English education; I have been thoroughly well grounded. I know several languages also."
"Excuse me, Miss Ross, pray keep yourself to English."
Cecil began to enumerate her different attainments in this branch of study.
"I can give you good references," she said. "I had first prize in English history on several occasions, and my compositions—they were always above the average."
"I have heard that you are a clever girl," said Miss Pinchin; "in fact, anyone to look at your face could see that. You certainly do make the most extraordinary request. Miss Edgar was thirty—how old are you?"
"I shall be eighteen in a week. Oh, please, Miss Pinchin, don't let that interfere! I can't help being young; that fact does not prevent my having the care of four brothers."
"Poor girl! yes, yours is a heavy burden. You might perhaps come to me for a time if—— By the way, of course you have different certificates. You have at least passed the Cambridge Junior and Senior?"