Her mother had written that she might invite any friend she wished home with her to spend the holidays . Carol had asked for this permission , and now that it had come was ready to dance for joy . As to whom she would ask , there could be only one answer to that . Of course it must be her particular friend , Maud Russell , who was the cleverest and prettiest girl at Oaklawn , at least so her admirers said . She was undoubtedly the richest , and was the acknowledged `` leader . '' The girls affectionately called her `` Princess , '' and Carol adored her with that romantic affection that is found only among school girls . She knew , too , that Maud would surely accept her invitation because she did not intend to go home . Her parents were travelling in Europe , and she expected to spend her holidays with some cousins , who were almost strangers to her . Carol was so much pleased that she felt as if she must talk to somebody , so she turned to Ruth . `` Is n't it delightful to think that we 'll all be going home in a fortnight ? '' `` Yes , very -- for those that have homes to go to , '' said Ruth drearily . Carol felt a quick pang of pity and self-reproach . `` Have n't you ? '' she asked . Ruth shook her head . In spite of herself , the kindness of Carol 's tone brought the tears to her eyes . `` My mother died a year ago , '' she said in a trembling voice , `` and since then I have had no real home . We were quite alone in the world , Mother and I , and now I have nobody . '' `` Oh , I 'm so sorry for you , '' cried Carol impulsively . She leaned forward and took Ruth 's hand in a gentle way .
`` And do you mean to say that you 'll have to stay here all through the XXXXX ?
admirers answer holidays home homes invitation joy kindness pity voice