She surveyed the two girls with considerable curiosity.
Without answering, Kathleen turned abruptly and walked to the window, her favorite method of showing her utter contempt of a situation.
Patience bent an inquiring gaze on Grace, whose eyes met hers unflinchingly.
"Pardon me, Patience, if I don't answer your question," returned Grace.
"Perhaps Miss West will answer you after I am gone.

This much I may say.
She has ordered me not to come again to this room.

Therefore, although I am very fond of you, I feel that it won't be right for me to come here to see you.

Will you come into our room as often as you can and forgive me for staying away from yours ?" Without waiting for an answer, Grace slipped from the room, leaving Patience to stare speculatively after her, then at the tense little figure in the window.
Before she had time to address Kathleen, the latter wheeled about, sneering and defiant.

"If you are so anxious to know what the trouble is go and ask your dear friend, Miss Harlowe.