If I don't have my
grades to show, people will think I quit because I couldn't pass my
examinations. I must have my diploma!"
"Then get it!" said Mrs. Comstock.
"The only way is to graduate with the others."
"Well, graduate if you are bound to!"
"But I can't, unless I have things enough like the class, that I don't
look as I did that first day."
"Well, please remember I didn't get you into this, and I can't get you
out. You are set on having your own way. Go on, and have it, and see how
you like it!"
Elnora went upstairs and did not come down again that night, which her
mother called pouting.
"I've thought all night," said the girl at breakfast, "and I can't see
any way but to borrow the money of Uncle Wesley and pay it back from
some that the Bird Woman will owe me, when I get one more specimen. But
that means that I can't go to--that I will have to teach this winter, if
I can get a city grade or a country school."
"Just you dare go dinging after Wesley Sinton for money," cried Mrs.
Comstock. "You won't do any such a thing!"
"I can't see any other way. I've got to have the money!"
"Quit, I tell you!"
"I can't quit!--I've gone too far!"
"Well then, let me get your clothes, and you can pay me back."
"But you said you had no money!"
"Maybe I can borrow some at the bank. Then you can return it when the
Bird Woman pays you."
"All right," said Elnora. "I don't need expensive things.
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