"Are we expected to learn lessons we have never been taught and has that horrid Miriam been studying ahead ?" "I think I must be dreaming," replied Anne, looking sorrowfully at Miss Leece.
"Miss Pierson," thundered the teacher, "you are aware, I believe, that I permit no conversation in this class.

Stupidity and inattention are not to be supported in any student, and I must ask you to leave the room." Anne rose in a dazed sort of way, looking very small and shabby as she left the room.
But Miss Leece was not to come off so easily in the fight, and Anne had a splendid champion in Grace Harlowe, who could not endure injustice and was fearless where her rights or her friends' rights were concerned.
She rose quietly and faced the angry teacher, who already regretted having gone so far.
"If Miss Pierson is to be ordered from the room, Miss Leece, I shall follow her.

I spoke to her first.

I was naturally surprised that you gave out a problem so far in advance of our regular work.

It is doubtful if any girl in the class could do it except Miriam, and she must have been prepared." "Miss Harlowe," said Miss Leece, stamping her foot, and again giving way to rage, "I must ask you to take your seat at once and never interfere again with the way I conduct this class." "You conduct this class with injustice and violence, Miss Leece," said Grace, turning very white, but holding herself in admirable control considering the conduct of the older woman.
"I am in no humor to be answered back this morning, Miss Harlowe, and I would advise you to be careful," continued the enraged woman.