' You all know that it means kindness and consideration
of the rights and feelings of others. You know as well the meaning of
the word 'hospitality'; that it means that any person who is received
beneath your roof is entitled to courtesy and to more than that, to
protection. Even savages will protect any traveler who comes into their
home, and give the best they have to make him comfortable." Miss Rosalie
stopped a moment, and then said: "If there is anyone of you who has not
known the meaning of the two words to which I refer, will she please to
rise."
The girls all remained seated.
"Elinor, you will now apologize for having failed in courtesy and in
hospitality to one of my pupils."
Elinor stood looking out across the schoolroom. Her mouth was tightly
closed, and apparently she had no intention of obeying.
"Do I have to apologize for speaking the truth?" she demanded.
The girls held their breath. Was it possible that Elinor dared defy Miss
Patten? Grace and Flora were sadly puzzled. They were the only pupils
who did not understand the exact reason, Elinor's treatment of Sylvia,
for Miss Patten's demand.
The teacher did not respond, and Elinor did not speak. Then after a
moment Miss Patten said, "Take your seat, Elinor. I shall make this
request of you again at the beginning of the afternoon session. If you
do not comply with it you will no longer be received as a pupil in this
school."
CHAPTER VI
SYLVIA AT THE PLANTATION
When the afternoon session opened Elinor Mayhew was not in her usual
place.
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