"No, I agree," said Miss Lavish. "It's like a school feast; the
boys have got separated from the girls. Miss Lucy, you are to go.
We wish to converse on high topics unsuited for your ear."

The girl was stubborn. As her time at Florence drew to its close
she was only at ease amongst those to whom she felt indifferent.
Such a one was Miss Lavish, and such for the moment was
Charlotte. She wished she had not called attention to herself;
they were both annoyed at her remark and seemed determined to get
rid of her.

"How tired one gets," said Miss Bartlett. "Oh, I do wish Freddy
and your mother could be here."

Unselfishness with Miss Bartlett had entirely usurped the
functions of enthusiasm. Lucy did not look at the view either.
She would not enjoy anything till she was safe at Rome.

"Then sit you down," said Miss Lavish. "Observe my foresight."

With many a smile she produced two of those mackintosh squares
that protect the frame of the tourist from damp grass or cold
marble steps. She sat on one; who was to sit on the other?

"Lucy; without a moment's doubt, Lucy. The ground will do for me.
Really I have not had rheumatism for years. If I do feel it
coming on I shall stand. Imagine your mother's feelings if I let
you sit in the wet in your white linen." She sat down heavily
where the ground looked particularly moist. "Here we are, all