This conference lasted some little time, and then Priscilla, in the
lecturer's company, returned to the hall for tea.

A great many girls kept coming in and out. Some stayed to have tea,
but most helped themselves to tea and bread and butter and took them
away to partake of in their own private rooms.

Maggie Oliphant and Nancy Banister presently rushed in for this
purpose. Maggie, seeing Priscilla, ran up to her.

"How are you getting on?" she asked brightly. "Oh, by-the-by, will you
cocoa with me to-night at half-past ten?"

"I don't know what you mean," answered Priscilla. "But I'll do it,"
she added, her eyes brightening.

"All right, I'll explain the simple ceremony when you come. My room is
next to yours, so you'll have no difficulty in finding me out. I don't
expect to have any one present except Miss Banister," nodding her head
in Nancy's direction, "and perhaps one other girl. By-by, I'll see you
at half-past ten."

Maggie turned to leave the hall, but Nancy lingered for a moment by
Priscilla's side.

"Wouldn't you like to take your tea up to your room?" she asked. "We
most of us do it. You may, you know."

"I don't think I wish to," answered Priscilla in an uncertain voice.