She lifted her head and cast an almost frightened look at the De Guenthers, waiting courteously for her decision. In reply to the look, Mr. De Guenther began giving her details about the money, and the leisure time, and the business terms of the contract generally. She listened attentively. All that—for a little guardianship, a little kindness, and the giving-up of a little piece of life nobody wanted and a few little hopes and dreams!
Phyllis laughed, as she always did when there were big black problems to be solved.
"After all, it's fairly usual," she said. "I heard last week of a woman who left money along with her pet dog, very much the same way."
"Did you? Did you, dear?" asked Mrs. De Guenther, beaming. "Then you think you will do it?"
The Liberry Teacher rose, and squared her straight young shoulders under the worn net waist.
"If Mrs. Harrington thinks I'll do for the situation!" she said gallantly,—and laughed again.
"It feels partly like going into a nunnery and partly like going into a fairy-story," she said to herself that night as she wound her alarm. "But—I wonder if anybody's remembered to ask the consent of the groom!"