CHAPTER XLI.
The ordinary aspect of the schoolroom was seen no more.
Installed in a position of temporary authority, the parlour-maid sat silently at her needlework.

Maria stood by the window, in the new character of an idle girl--with her handkerchief in her hand, and her everlasting book dropped unnoticed on the floor.

Zo lay flat on her back, on the hearth-rug, hugging the dog in her arms.

At intervals, she rolled herself over slowly from side to side, and stared at the ceiling with wondering eyes.

Miss Minerva's departure had struck the parlour-maid dumb, and had demoralized the pupils.
Maria broke the silence at last.