worldly-minded sophomore, dared to intimate as much to Miriam Nesbit, who
replied loftily:

"If Mrs. Gray knew as much about Miss Pierson as we do, she would probably
not care for her any longer."

"It's a pity some one doesn't tell her," said Julia Crosby, ever ready for
mischief.

"Oh, some one will have the courage yet," answered Miriam, "and when she
does, that will end everything as far as Miss Pierson is concerned. Mrs.
Gray can't endure anything dishonorable."

Just then a young man claimed Miriam for the two-step about to begin, and
Julia wandered off, leaving Frances to digest what had been said. The more
the latter thought about it, the more she felt that Mrs. Gray ought to be
warned against Anne. She decided that she had the courage; that it was
her duty to do so.

Without hesitating, she blundered over to where Mrs. Gray sat for the
moment.

"Mrs. Gray," Frances began, "I want to tell you something which I think
you ought to know."

"And what is that, my dear?" asked the old lady courteously, trying vainly
to remember the girl's face.

"Why, about Miss Pierson's true character," replied the girl.