"But is it true?"
"Absolutely true. Circumstances make it imperative. It is not my wish.
I would like to stay here with you all my life."
"I wish you could. I half hoped you would," said Lois wistfully.
"But I cannot, my dear. I cannot."
"Then that is another thing over," said Lois. "What a good time it has been, this year and a half you have been with us! how much worth to Madge and me! But won't you come back again?"
"I fear not. You will not miss me so much; you will all keep house together, Mr. Hotchkiss tells me."
"I shall not be here," said Lois.
"Where will you be?" Mrs. Barclay started.
"I don't know; but it will be best for me to do something to help along. I think I shall take a school somewhere. I think I can get one."
"A school, my dear? Why should you do such a thing?"