You knew that; I told you so before I left and I have written it many times since.

I came now because--well, because--you mustn't be alarmed, Auntie; there is nothing to be frightened about--but the school committee seemed to feel that I needed a change and rest.

They seemed to think that I was not as well as I should be, that I was tired, was wearing myself out; that is the way they expressed it.

It was absurd, of course, I am perfectly well.

But when they came to me and told me that they had decided to give me a vacation, with pay, until next fall, and even longer if I felt that I needed it, you may be sure I didn't refuse their kind offer.