"'Yes, you can tell that story if Christian wishes it. If Christian says yes, you may tell it; but if Christian says no, you must not tell it. You go up,' says Miss Peacock, 'and ask her now, and do it very quietly.'
"So do you wish it, Miss Christian? Shall I tell the story? It'll hearten 'em up a good bit; it's real prime, that tale is."
"Yes," answered Christian. She turned away as she said the words, but there was a smile in her eyes. "Yes, it will be the way out, and a great, great relief. Tell them, Rose, and God bless you!"
Rose rushed from the room, and the next minute appeared again in the hall.
"Miss Christian looked sadly weak, but she'd like me to tell the tale. She thinks it a very, very good plan," said Rose.
"Then sit here, Rose," said Miss Peacock. "Sit just here, facing me, and tell your story exactly in your own way, just in the words you like best to use. I am sure we shall all listen with great attention."
"If you please, Miss Peacock," said Susan Marsh, "need I stay? I have a letter to write to my father; and my exercise for Miss Forest is not half finished."
"Yes, you must stay, Susan," replied Miss Peacock.
"But my exercise——"
"Never mind that now. Stay. Begin, please, Rose."