Why did Anne discourage Freda from playing with Marian?

Anne was sure Marian would not play with Freda or otherwise. She had often tried to get Marian along with other children. The result was always the same. Marian would come home as soon as she could, her drooping shoulders expressing a despair that went to my heart. Anne’s remarks sound unwelcoming because she was jealous of Freda’s smartness. Freda’s reaction was one that appeared to be quite an ordinary one but inside, the little girl had an unusual reaction. She was not taken aback and that was the uniqueness of her reaction. She was sad and a little angry to hear that her neighbour was deaf and dumb but she was determined and unmoved. All that she wanted know was if Marian was able to speak on her fingers. Although she left her orange for Marian and left for her home, Freda had decided to return with her toys.