Enter, R., Laura.
Laura. I am going to destroy that hideous valentine, and not let Miss Steele see it. We might be expelled, and, anyway, such things do no good. Why, where is it? Gone! Oh dear! Can any of the teachers have seen it? What if Miss Steele— [Rushes frightened from the room, L.]
Enter, R., Miss Steele.
Miss Steele (face red, hair dishevelled). I have been all this time putting my room to rights. That wicked girl had literally emptied my drawers and scattered everything around the room. She is impertinent and saucy to the last degree. I can't seem to do anything with her and her set, and yet they are popular with the other teachers. But they treat me shamefully. Mollie seems to be the ring-leader, and she must on this occasion be severely punished. To-morrow is a half-holiday. I shall request Mrs. Eaton to keep her in her room. In fact, I think all of them ought to receive punishment.
Enter Cupid, as mail-carrier.
Cupid. Good-day, ma'am.
Miss Steele. This seems to be a new mail-carrier. Aren't you rather young for this business?
Cupid. I always deliver the valentines. Here are a lot for you.
Miss Steele. For me? You are mistaken. Who would send me a valentine?
Cupid. And why should not you receive a valentine? They are messages of love.