She remembered all they said that she
understood, and when uncertain she asked questions. Occasionally she
laid down her work to straighten some flower which needed attention
or to search the garden for a bug for the grosbeak. In one of these
absences Elnora said to Philip: "These replace quite a number of the
moths I lost for the man of India. With a week of such luck, I could
almost begin to talk college again."
"There is no reason why you should not have the week and the luck," said
he. "I have taken moths until the middle of August, though I suspect one
is more likely to find late ones in the north where it is colder
than here. The next week is hay-time, but we can count on a few
double-brooders and strays, and by working the exchange method for all
it is worth, I think we can complete the collection again."
"You almost make me hope," said Elnora, "but I must not allow myself. I
don't truly think I can replace all I lost, not even with your help. If
I could, I scarcely see my way clear to leave mother this winter. I have
found her so recently, and she is so precious, I can't risk losing her
again. I am going to take the nature position in the Onabasha schools,
and I shall be most happy doing the work. Only, these are a temptation."
"I wish you might go to college this fall with the other girls," said
Philip. "I feel that if you don't you never will. Isn't there some way?"
"I can't see it if there is, and I really don't want to leave mother.
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