A circle of schoolgirls at a small institute accept a very young child placed there by her grandfather, and the narrative follows their friendships, schoolroom routines, games, committees, and seasonal celebrations as they care for and befriend her. Interwoven episodes introduce classmates with varied temperaments, domestic scenes at teachers' homes, a diary and a clandestine letter solved by the girls, a journey during which the child disappears and is sought, and a final resolution at school including an awarded prize. Themes include loyalty, youthful resourcefulness, and the bonds formed through shared responsibility.