"But it will pay us in the end. If we made a mistake now——"
Cora stopped.
A tap came at the door, at which both girls fairly jumped.
"I will answer," said Helka, immediately regaining her composure. She opened the door.
"I forgot my lesson book in your room to-day," said a voice that proved to be that of Christine, "and may I get it?"
"Not to-night," answered Helka decisively. "You should not forget things, and it is too late for lessons."
"But the man—Jensen—says I must get it. He is my teacher, and he is below."
"Tell him Helka says you must go to bed: to bed, do you hear? At once!
I will have Lena see how you obey me."
The girl turned away. Helka locked the door.
"What does that mean?" asked Cora anxiously.