“Yes; we leave to-morrow, early in the day,” said Mrs Lee.
By a great effort, Christie said, hurriedly:
“About my things, ma’am—my frock and hat? I am afraid I have not enough to pay for them and take me home.”
She had not time to say more. Suddenly turning, Mrs Lee laid her hand on her arm.
“Hush, Christie! It is not a matter of wages between you and me to-night. Money could not pay what I owe to you. We’ll speak of that by and by. Sit down, now, my poor, weary child.”
She placed herself on a low stool at a little distance, and let her head fall on her hand.
“Are you thinking to go home?” asked Mrs Lee.
“I don’t know. I suppose so. I have nowhere else to go.” Christie’s voice was husky, but she was able to command it.
“And did you think I would leave you with nowhere to go?” asked Mrs Lee, gravely. “But would it not be best to go? You are not strong, Christie.”
“Perhaps it would be better to go, but I wish I could get a place for a little while.” And Christie told her of the new misfortune that had befallen them, in the loss of her aunt’s income.