But Christian rose quickly.
"Don't go, please, Star," she said. "I was resting just for a minute or two; I am all right now. I will go and have a walk round the grounds before lesson-hour."
"But you mustn't; it is so cold," said Angela. "Why, what is the matter, Christian?"
For Angela had caught sight of Christian's face, and had noticed the large tear-drop on her cheek which rolled down and disappeared even as she spoke.
"I'm all right, really. Please don't go away," said Christian. "Why shouldn't you stay?"
Star suddenly changed her mind.
"You belong to us, Chris, don't you?"
"I thought so—I hoped so," was Christian's answer.
There was a note of hope in her voice.
"We have been rather puzzled about you, all the same," said Star, sinking into a chair and spreading out her hands to the blaze. "Angel, sit down by my side and warm yourself, pet. We have been rather amazed that you have taken up with Susan Marsh. Don't you know—— Oh, of course, I mustn't say a word; it wouldn't be gentlemanly; and whatever happens, I will be a gentleman. I'd hate to be a lady. A gentlemanly girl is my ideal of the perfect girl, and I hope I am that, so I won't speak against a schoolfellow. But, all the same, she's not your sort—not really."