human
I didn't intend to tell you, mamma, but I overheard Olive and Ela saying to each other that they were sorry I was invited to Ellsworth, and planning not to pay their board so as to keep you from buying me anything new to wear.
gpt
Oh, how cruel they were! And what good reason could they have for wishing to deprive you of the pleasure of such a trip?
human
Jealousy, mamma! Dainty answered, with flashing eyes and burning cheeks.
gpt
They did not tell you all that was in their letter from Aunt Judith, but I overheard Olive saying that aunt's step-son, Lovelace Ellsworth, had returned at last from Europe, and that they must set their caps for him. They were afraid I might rival them. Ela said I would look pretty even in a rag, and she wished they could leave me at home. So you see --bitterly--
human
Certainly not, my darling, for you shall follow them this morning, and let them know you were not afraid to travel alone, as they no doubt hoped you would be!
gpt
Oh, mamma, I dare not venture alone! I shall stay at home with you, and let them have Mr. Ellsworth!