I am going to see my friend home," she said calmly enough.
The girl with the red parasol seemed to gasp at the word "friend," when Virginia spoke it.

She did not say anything.
The other girls seemed speechless.
"Go on.

I cannot go back with you," said Virginia.

The driver started the horses slowly.

One of the girls leaned a little out of the carriage.
"Can't we--that is--do you want our help?
Couldn't you--" "No, no!" exclaimed Virginia.