Stella Rosevelt — page 75: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

A CONSULTATION. 69. I think that we can arrange for you to pursue your education as you desire, ” Star flushed. She knew well enough that a mere consultation with Mrs. Richards would not secure much for her, and that she would be very angry with her for having appealed to her husband, and she made up her mind on the spot to make a bold stroke for her freedom. So meeting his eyes in a frank, fearless way, yet speaking with the utmost respect, she said: ‘‘T feel confident from the conversation which I had with Mrs. Richards this morning, that she will be very unwilling to make any change in her arrangements, so I will be perfectly frank and say to you, that much as | should dislike to take any radical steps in opposition to her, or my father’s desire that I should remain with her, yet I cannot consent to remain here as a common servant, with no privileges or time to myself. I pre- sume Mrs. Richards will say that, as she has been appointed mny guardian, I shall have to do just as she desires. But I have read somewhere that when an orphan in this country reaches a certain age, he has the privilege of choosing a guardian for himself. Rather than be subjected to the fate of becoming a second Maggie Flynn,” Star continued, her voice gathering firmness, ‘‘I shall exercise that privilege. ‘Thank you for listen- ing so kindly to my troubles, and I trust I have not wearied you. Good-night.” Without waiting for him to reply, she inclined her head in a ‘graceful bow, and quietly glided from the room. ‘‘ By George!” exploded Mr. Richards, staring blankly after her retreating form, ‘that is what I call spirit. Make a com- mon servant of such a girl as that, indeed! My aay and I mi talk this matter over, and see-—zhat¢ we shall see.’ Half an hour later he sought an interview with his wife, and there followed ‘‘a consultation” in earnest. ~ EOmMmicbooks (EO)