“My place is where I can do good,” returned Edith, speaking slowly, but with great firmness.
“Good! You can do good if you want to without demeaning yourself to work like this. I don't want you mixed up with these low, vile people, and I won't have it!” Mrs. Dinneford spoke in a sharp, positive voice.
Edith made no answer, and they walked on together.
“I shall speak to your father about this,” said Mrs. Dinneford. “It isn't reputable. I wouldn't have you seen here for the world.”
“I shall walk unhurt; you need not fear,” returned Edith.
There was silence between them for some time, Edith not caring to speak, and her mother in doubt as to what it were best to say.
“How long have you been going to St. John's mission school?” at length queried Mrs. Dinneford.
“I've been only a few times,” replied Edith.
“And have a class of diseased and filthy little wretches, I suppose—gutter children?”
“They are God's children,” said Edith, in a tone of rebuke.