"Which is rather fortunate than otherwise; for," Mrs. Millard tapped the card with her glass, "I desire you not to make a friend of this young lady."
Charlotte sat down on the step. "Does that mean I am to be rude to her?"
"Certainly not. There are ways of letting people know you do not care for their society without being rude."
"I don't see how you can do it without being unpleasant," argued Charlotte; "and I like Lucile."
"That last fact has nothing to do with it. It is important at your age to form proper friendships. This I do not consider desirable, and I expect you to be guided by me."
"What am I to do?" Charlotte persisted.
"I see no occasion to do anything."
"She will think it rude if I do not go to see her."
"What she thinks is of little moment. You can say your aunt does not care to have you make visits while you are occupied with your studies."