Page:The Yellow Book - 13.djvu/314

282 they rested on the blackboard or the maps, or the trees outside, she was absurdly, childishly happy.

No questions—no conscience—she was Lucy Wren to-day—not the safe friend of Ella's husband—not the best companion for girls—not the woman every one was the better for knowing—she was just herself. She saw a child talking in class. She ought to give her a bad mark. She did not do it, and she revelled in her little injustice.

Another lesson and another little break.

If he had not come! There by the river! What would have happened? She did not know. "Only if we had not found each other!" That was the thought that made her shudder. But they had! They had! Only five hours more to Ella's "At Home!"

It was Ella's " "At Home," and Ella's husband. But what had Ella to do with either? Ella, with her mind so full of little things, so content with herself and with Tom. Did she envy Ella? Envy Ella? What a funny idea, how had it come into her head?

" Miss Wren, can I speak to you! I want to give you the fifth form next term. They are nice girls, but their tone isn't just what I should wish. It's a difficult age, their home influences are bad, frivolous. It's more advanced work than you have had, I'm afraid you'll find it hard, but I feel so sure that your influence is the best they could have."

It was the head mistress, and it was settled that next term Lucy should have the fifth form, and her salary would be raised; and there were only three hours now to get through before Ella's "At Home!"

Ella was happy. She was having quite an intimate talk with one or two dear friends before the others came.

Rh