"Really," said Miss Forest, her eyes flashing, "the insubordination in this school must be put a stop to with a firm hand. You, I verily believe, are the ringleader, Susan Marsh. Notwithstanding our anxiety and the serious illness of Christian Mitford, I take it upon myself to say that the girls who disobeys and leaves the school this afternoon will be put into solitary confinement and not allowed to speak to her schoolfellows for at least twenty-four hours."
"Thank you," said Susan. She dropped a little mock courtesy and ran away.
Just at that moment Star, in her hat and jacket, appeared. Susan, who had gone down the whole length of the corridor, now stopped to watch what would happen. Miss Forest, terribly aroused, turned to Star.
"Where are you going?" she said.
"For a walk."
"In the grounds?"
"No," said Star. "Please—I wanted to ask your permission—please, I want to go into the town."
"You can't go, Stella. I have just said that no girl is to leave the grounds to-day."
"Oh, please, this is so important!"
"I can't help it. You girls think you are so wise, and you are nothing of the sort. Walk in the grounds, and please don't argue the point. The girl who ventures outside without permission shall have twenty-four hours of solitary confinement. There now! I am determined; I can't stand this spirit of insurrection any longer."