She and that Miss Briggs are beneath the notice of the really nice girls here.

Overton doesn't want bullies and tale-bearers.

They're not in accordance with college spirit." The contempt with which these words were uttered stung Anne to action.
Stepping forward she said quietly, although her eyes flashed, "Pardon me, but I could not help hearing what you said.

Will you permit me to speak a few words in defense of my friend, Grace Harlowe ?" An astonished silence fell over the group of girls.

Before one of them had time to recover from her surprise at Anne's intrusion, she began to speak in low tones that attracted no attention outside themselves, but whose earnestness carried conviction to those listening: "You are evidently not in possession of the true account of what happened to Miss Briggs the day she came to Overton.