Gertrude. I asked what all Europe was at war about? It said so in my history lesson.
Ada. I asked what an adjective clause was? It came in my grammar.
Miss Steele. Young ladies, I fear you are not absolutely truthful. Remember, the truthful person is never afraid to incriminate himself. He fears deceit above everything else. Try above all things to tell the truth. In the present instance I certainly heard a word that did not belong to either your history or grammar.
Alicia (behind her hands). Eavesdropping, I do believe.
Miss Steele. Miss Perry, did you speak?
Alicia. I was restraining a sneeze, ma'am.
Miss Steele. The word that I happened to overhear was "valentines." I want you to understand that I wholly disapprove of those things. They are silly and stupid. It is a reprehensible custom, that of sending them. Keep your thoughts on higher, better things. I shall remain with you during the rest of this study hour, and see that you pursue your work faithfully till the bell rings. (Seats herself, adjusts glasses, and proceeds to darn a pair of stockings.) It is quite cool here. Georgiana my dear, go to my room, and in the left-hand corner of the drawer you will find a white shawl. Bring it to me.
Georgiana. Yeth, ma'am. [Exit.]
Miss Steele. Strange how that child lisps. I must speak to the elocution-master about it. He might suggest a remedy for the defect.
Mary Ann. May I ask what this word spells?