I wish I could draw , '' said Meg , with mingled admiration and regret in her voice . `` Why do n't you learn ? I should think you had taste and talent for it , '' replied Miss Kate graciously . `` I have n't time . '' `` Your mamma prefers other accomplishments , I fancy . So did mine , but I proved to her that I had talent by taking a few lessons privately , and then she was quite willing I should go on . Ca n't you do the same with your governess ? '' `` I have none . '' `` I forgot young ladies in America go to school more than with us . Very fine schools they are , too , Papa says . You go to a private one , I suppose ? '' `` I do n't go at all . I am a governess myself . '' `` Oh , indeed ! '' said Miss Kate , but she might as well have said , `` Dear me , how dreadful ! '' for her tone implied it , and something in her face made Meg color , and wish she had not been so frank . Mr. Brooke looked up and said quickly , `` Young ladies in America love independence as much as their ancestors did , and are admired and respected for supporting themselves . '' `` Oh , yes , of course it 's very nice and proper in them to do so . We have many most respectable and worthy young women who do the same and are employed by the nobility , because , being the daughters of gentlemen , they are both well bred and accomplished , you know , '' said Miss Kate in a patronizing tone that hurt Meg 's pride , and made her work seem not only more distasteful , but degrading . `` Did the German song suit , Miss March ? ''
inquired Mr. XXXXX , breaking an awkward pause .
America Brooke Ca German Kate Meg Mr. Papa ladies something