Mr. Richards’ face was very stern when the young girl concluded, and Star, looking into it, felt almost frightened at what she had done.
But she reasoned that her situation could not be much worse than it already was, and it demanded desperate measures.
CHAPTER VII.
A CONSULTATION.
“What have you been doing to-day?” Mr. Richards asked, in cold, stern tones, after what seemed an interminable pause.
Stella began to feel almost faint. That hard face, in which displeasure was the chief expression, did not look very promising for her cause; but she replied:
“I have done all the chamber-work, swept and dusted five rooms, and waited upon Mrs. Richards.”
“You are not accustomed to such work,” he said, glancing at her delicate hands.
“Not to any such extent, sir. Mamma used to require me to take care of the music-room, besides my own, at home, for we could keep only one servant, and I know how to sweep, and dust, and make beds,” Star concluded, with a slight smile.
“I should say that you know a good many things for so young a lady,” Mr. Richards said, kindly, for he saw that she was nervous over what she had been telling him. Then he added, more gravely: “I will consult with Mrs. Richards, and I think that we can arrange for you to pursue your education as you desire.”
Star flushed.