The last weeks of the school year just seemed to melt away until only one remained, and this was filled full with many duties, various class meetings, preparations for graduating day, class receptions, etc.
For some time Katherine had observed that Sadie appeared absent- minded and depressed; in fact, wholly unlike herself, and twice of late she had surprised her in violent weeping. But the girl would give no reason, made light of it as "nervousness," and evaded all questions.
One day, while looking over their personal belongings and packing away things no longer needed, preparatory to their flitting, Katherine abruptly inquired:
"Sadie, where are you going to spend your summer?"
The girl started violently and turned a vivid scarlet.
"I—I don't know, honey. I reckon I may travel some," she said, after a moment of hesitation.
"With your guardian and his family?"
"N-o; they're going to Europe, but I don't care to go with them."
"But you surely cannot travel by yourself," Katherine observed, in surprise, while she regarded the averted face opposite her curiously, an unaccountable feeling of uneasiness taking possession of her.
"I—I suppose I can't; perhaps I shan't, after all," Sadie stammered. "I may go to some quiet place and board."