And both were young

by Madeleine L'Engle

While Flip was drawing Kaatje, Martha said, "My mother writes me you're going to be spending the holidays in Nice with Mrs. Jackman, Philippa. We're going to be there for a week, so maybe we'll see you."

Flip shook her head, glancing up briefly from her sketch of Kaatje. "I'm not going to be with Mrs. Jackman. I'm staying up the mountain with Paul Laurens."

"Percy's nephew?" Martha asked in surprise. "How did you get to know him?"

"She has tea with him every Sunday afternoon." Erna, who had evidently appointed herself as Flip's spokesman told the seniors. "She's just come back from there now, haven't you, Flip?"

Flip nodded, tore off her page, and gave it to Kaatje.

"Thanks simply ages, Philippa," Kaatje said. "You'll probably be besieged by every girl in school."

"I don't mind," Flip said. "It's what I love to do. If those aren't right or if you want any more I'd love to try again."

"We may take you up on that." Martha smiled at her. "Sorry you aren't going to be in Nice for the holidays."

"Flip, you're made," Erna said when the older girls had left. "If Martha and Kaatje like your pictures there won't be a girl in school who won't want one. I bet you'll get artist's cramp or something."

"It's all right with me." Flip grinned happily.