'I can only suggest, of course. One mustn't argue about others from
one's own habit of thought. Heaven forbid'--this sounded rather
profane to the listener--'that I should urge you to do anything
you would think rash. But how much better if you could somehow
secure independence.'

'Ah, if we could! The very thing we were saying the other day! But
how? I have no idea how.'

Miss Nunn seemed to hesitate.

'I don't advise. You mustn't give any weight to what I say, except
in so far as your own judgment approves it. But couldn't one open a
preparatory school, for instance? At Weston, suppose, where already
you know a good many people. Or even at Clevedon.'

Virginia drew in her breath, and it was easy for Miss Nunn to
perceive that the proposal went altogether beyond her friend's
scope. Impossible, perhaps, to inspire these worn and discouraged
women with a particle of her own enterprise. Perchance they
altogether lacked ability to manage a school for even the youngest
children. She did not press the subject; it might come up on another
occasion. Virginia begged for time to think it over; then,
remembering her invalid sister, felt that she must not prolong the
visit.

'Do take some of these flowers,' said Miss Nunn, collecting a rich
nosegay from the vases. 'Let them be my message to your sister. And
I should be so glad to see Monica. Sunday is a good time; I am