The Charm School
Could it have been a princess who had looked at him with that expression? Austin caught himself wondering. Then he thought: "How ridiculous! What difference does it make who she is—one of my pupils—that's all."
The door opened and a tall, angular woman entered.
"I'm Miss Hayes, Mr. Bevans," she said, in a brisk, pleasant, almost too competent voice. "I teach mathematics. I think it's more honest to tell you I'm not a bit in sympathy with a great deal that you said this morning. You want them taught to please—the poor dears. They're too eager to please as it is—women, I mean."
"Not all," said Austin, and then wished he hadn't, for she laughed, understanding him quickly.
"I couldn't assist in any such plan. This continual thinking about their charms holds women back so, and—yes—even from your point of view—makes them less charming."
"You mean you are not sufficiently in sympathy to stay with us?" said Austin, firmly.
She smiled, but not triumphantly. "I have a three years' contract," she answered.
Austin looked at her. He thought she would be a determined, but not a dangerous
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