"No, I think not," said Fleda; the quick blood in her cheeks again answering the familiar voice and old associations; "I know several of the farmers' daughters around us that have studied Latin and Greek; and philosophy is a common thing; and I am sure there is more sense "
She suddenly checked herself, and her eye which had been sparkling grew quiet.
"It is very absurd!" said Mr. Stackpole.
"Why, Sir?"
"Oh, these people have nothing to do with such things do them nothing but harm!"
"May I ask again, what harm?" said Fleda, gently.
"Unfit them for the duties of their station, and make them discontented with it."
"By making it pleasanter?"
"No, no not by making it pleasanter."
"By what then, Mr. Stackpole?" said Thorn, to draw him on, and to draw her out, Fleda was sure.