"I should like it very much indeed," she said; "but you know I must get through my studies first."
"Oh, you won't take long over them."
"Yes, but I shall," answered Bessie; "there is a very stiff piece of German to translate this afternoon. I can manage French and mathematics of course, and—"
"Oh, don't begin to rehearse your different studies," said Gwin, holding up her hand in a warning attitude. "I don't care in the least what you learn, Bessie; I want you to come. Because," she added, "you are such an honest creature."
"Why should not I be honest?" said Bessie, opening her eyes wide. "I have never had any temptation to be anything else."
"My dear Bessie, you are too painfully matter-of-fact," said Elma. "Gwin meant that your nature is transparent—it is a beautiful trait in any character."
"Well, Bessie, will you come or will you not?" interrupted Gwin.
"Yes, I'll come. I'll manage it somehow," said Bessie. I can't resist the temptation."
"And you too, Alice?" said Gwin, turning to Alice Denvers, who was watching Bessie with envious eyes.
"I don't suppose mother will let me. I am ever so vexed," said Alice.