human
Oh, what do you ask me for, Blue Bonnet? I don't like to tell you--really I don't! What's the use? Oh, dear, I wish I hadn't dropped that hint. I didn't mean to--it just slipped out.
gpt
Go on. Tell me.
human
It's just gossip. Like enough there isn't a word of truth in it.
gpt
Never mind. Tell me.
human
All right, then: Mary Boyd says that Annabel Jackson is a perfect little toady--that she always finds out if a girl has money and nice clothes and things, before she has anything to do with her. She says Annabel has found out that you have a great deal of money, and that's one reason she's so nice to you.
gpt
But I haven't a great deal of money--not to spend here, anyway. I haven't any bigger allowance than Annabel has--or Sue, for that matter!
human
Yes, but it's got out about your ranch; that you have a lot coming to you some day--and--and that you brought me here--that you're paying my way--
gpt
Who told that? That's my business and Uncle Cliff's--entirely!
human
You said something about being responsible for me when I was sick. I reckon the girls put two and two together and started the story. I can't think how else it got out.
gpt
Oh, I'm so sorry, Carita. It must make you feel--horrid!
human
Not a bit, Carita answered cheerfully.
gpt
Everybody knows that a poor clergyman's daughter would never get in a school like this without some help. It was splendid of you to do it. I don't mind any one's knowing. Honestly I don't, Blue Bonnet. Don't be angry.
human
Oh, Blue Bonnet! Why did you make me tell you? I knew it would only make you unhappy. What difference does it make, anyway?
gpt
Just this difference: I like Annabel--for herself--and she likes me for what I've got. I suppose that's the way _all_ those girls feel--Sue and Wee, and Ruth--
human
You know that isn't true, Blue Bonnet. Everybody loves you for yourself. Why, I have the loveliest 'trade last' for you, right this minute. I'll give it to you now, and you can save mine till you hear it. Mary Boyd says--
gpt
Never mind, she said,
human
Well, you've got 'em--loads! Look at the We Are Sevens! They perfectly adore you. Now, don't they?
gpt
Well, I reckon they like me,
human
I shouldn't have told you all this, Blue Bonnet, only you made me. I wouldn't have dropped the hint about Annabel, only I think she's so awful nervy about wearing your clothes. Why, your Peter Tom's a sight--and that yellow dress--
gpt
Oh, I don't care about the clothes, Carita. Uncle Cliff will get me some more. Annabel hasn't hurt them any. The Peter Tom will clean. You know how white wool soils, yourself.