It was a courage which, alas! she had always lacked herself, but there was a certain satisfaction in knowing there were women in the world not entirely cowed by the tyrant Man.
"I have always wanted a daughter," went on Mrs.Ryder, becoming confidential, while Shirley removed her things and made herself at home; "girls of your age are so companionable." Then, abruptly, she asked: "Do your parents live in New York ?" Shirley's face flushed and she stooped over her trunk to hide her embarrassment.
"No--not at present," she answered evasively.

"My mother and father are in the country." She was afraid that more questions of a personal nature would follow, but apparently Mrs.Ryder was not in an inquisitive mood, for she asked nothing further.

She only said: "I have a son, but I don't see much of him.

You must meet my Jefferson.

He is such a nice boy." Shirley tried to look unconcerned as she replied: "I met him yesterday.