But she was soon to realize just how serious was her failure to salute
the palmetto flag. Miss Rosalie came down the aisle and laid a note on
Sylvia's desk.
It was very brief: "You may go home at recess. Take your books and go
quietly without a word to any of the other pupils. You may tell your
parents that I do not care to have you as a pupil for another day."
As Sylvia read these words the tears sprang to her eyes. It was all she
could do not to sob aloud. She dared not look at the other girls. She
held a book before her face, and only hoped that she could keep back the
tears until recess-time.
But not for a moment did Sylvia wish that she had saluted a flag which
stood for the protection of slavery. Miss Rosalie had said that a flag
was an "emblem," and even in her unhappiness Sylvia knew that the emblem
of the United States stood for justice and liberty.
When the hour of recess came Sylvia had her books neatly strapped, and,
as Miss Rosalie had directed, she left the room quietly without one word
to any of the other girls. She had nearly reached the gate when she
heard steps close behind her and Grace's voice calling: "Sylvia, Sylvia,
dear," and Grace's arm was about her. "It's a mean shame," declared the
warm-hearted little southern girl, "and flag or no flag, I'm your true
friend."
"Grace! Grace!" called Miss Rosalie, and before Sylvia could respond her
loyal playmate had turned obediently back to the house.
Sylvia stepped out on the street, her eyes a little blurred by tears,
but greatly comforted by Grace's assuring words of friendship.
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