"You have been doing very well lately," said Miss Ellis, "and during the
days you were away we had scarcely any new lessons--nothing but review.
You were always fair in mathematics when you put your mind to your work.
Now let us see if you cannot surprise everyone by getting all through--
not conditioned in anything."

Such encouragement was all Tavia needed. She went to work with a will
that day, and every time Dorothy glanced over at her (for Dorothy was as
anxious for her success as if it were entirely her own affair) she would
see Tavia "poring" over her book as if her very life depended upon her
accomplishing just so much work and she was bound she would do it.

How quickly the morning passed! It was so different to be busy in
school, Tavia thought, so much better than having the hours drag along.
At recess Alice hugged her in congratulation.

"I knew he would get it," she said, referring, of course, to the new
position of Mr. Travers, "and father says we girls elected him. I see
you are already doing credit to the confidence with which Dalton people
have intrusted your family."

"I am sure father will give satisfaction," Tavia answered, ignoring the
intended compliment for herself. "He had a splendid record in
Millville."

"And the picnic," said Alice. "Have you heard it is really coming off
this time? Next Monday."

"Then Sarah will be able to come," remarked Tavia, "I am just glad we
waited for her."