"It is a very nice plan, Lina, safe and sane and comfortable, yet it does not appeal to me. I said this afternoon that I expected to go away to school. Father does not see this as I do and so far has not given his consent. He must change his mind."
Jeanette looked directly at her stepmother and their eyes met for the first time in many days.
"I never have been happy at home since father re-married. I have been less happy of late. Perhaps Mrs. Colter knows why."
The arm about Jeanette's younger sister tightened. Jeanette felt a twinge of jealousy.
Via was staring at her with an expression of astonishment, even of resentment. The older girl flinched. She and Via had never a quarrel or misunderstanding before in their lives.
Her stepmother spoke slowly. She glanced away from Jeanette toward her husband.
"Jim, if Jeanette really wants so much to leave home, why, if you are not seriously opposed, perhaps you could arrange it."
An uncomfortable silence followed in the drawing-room.
Jeanette moved forward a few steps. She stood now in the midst of the family group, harmonious save for her presence.
"Thank you," she announced, with strained politeness. "I don't want father to send me to school unless he can afford it. I cannot help understanding that you may intend to pay my expenses, and although I appreciate why you would be glad to have me away, this I could not accept. Good night."