Although Sara and Becky are usually alone at the end of the workday, Lavinia (with Jessie and Gertrude in tow) needs a French translation of her letters home. Even with Becky's help, doing Lavinia's homework makes it difficult for Sara to get to her own class on time. Although Sensei Dufarge sees through Lavinia's deception because of her clumsiness in reading French, he is intimidated by the girl because the Headmistress wants him to retire. Sara is distraught when Becky tells her the news, because Sensei Dufarge was a dear friend to her.