"
"You have made a very lame excuse, Miss Singleton," said Miss
Eccleston after a pause. "You did something which was extremely
irregular and improper. Your reason for doing it was even worse than
the thing itself. You were in debt. The students of St. Benet's are
not expected to be in debt."
"But there's no rule against it," suddenly interrupted Maggie.
"Hush! your turn to speak will come presently. You know, Miss
Singleton-- all the right-minded girls in this college know-- that we
deal in principles, not rules. Now, please go on with your story."
Polly's broken and confused narrative continued for the next five
minutes. There were some titters from the girls behind her-- even Miss
Heath smiled faintly. Miss Eccleston alone remained grave and
displeased.
"That will do," she said at last. "You are a silly and rash girl, and
your only possible defense is your desire to keep the knowledge of
your extravagance from your father. Your love for him, however, has
never taught you true nobility. Had you that even in the most shadowy
degree, you would abstain from the things which he detests. He gives
you an ample allowance. Were you a schoolgirl and I your mistress, I
should punish you severely for your conduct."
Miss Eccleston paused.
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