She bowed slightly to him, and then turned to Mr. Coolidge, who had arisen as she entered, and now greeted her in courteous tones.
“My father-in-law, Mr. Alcott, Miss Douglas,” he said, by way of introduction, and Brownie now understood his start of surprise when she gave him her address.
“Be seated, Miss Douglas, if you please,” her employer continued, placing a chair for her.
She sat down and folded her little hands in her lap. Both gentlemen noticed her ladylike and self-possessed demeanor, and inwardly commented upon it.
“Miss Douglas, Mr. Alcott has done nothing but rehearse your accomplishments since his meeting with you night before last,” said Mr. Coolidge, with an affable smile.
“If what he says is true,” the gentleman continued, “and I have no doubt it is, since he is amply qualified to judge, this factory is no place for you.”
Was she to be turned away on account of her little knowledge?
“One cannot always control one’s circumstances, sir,” she said, quietly.
“True; I understand you, Miss Douglas. But it may be in the power of others to control them for you in a measure. Now, I have a proposal to make to you. If I understood Mr. Alcott correctly, you would like to teach?”
“Indeed, I should like it very much, sir.”