She quickly befriends several of the girls in her dormitory, including lively Alicia and artistic but scatter-brained Irene, though she has trouble getting along with the spoilt Gwendoline and the withdrawn and unfriendly Sally Hope.

Gwendoline, in particular, tests Darrell's temper, especially when she takes advantage of shy Mary-Lou's fear of swimming by holding her down in the water.

During the half-term break, Darrell asks Sally if she would like to spend the day with her and her parents, but is turned down.

A doctor is called to see Sally and it happens to be Darrell's father, Dr Rivers, who is nearby after the half-term holiday.

Gwendoline becomes increasingly envious of Darrell's growing popularity and decides to ruin her reputation.