'Now, my child, what 's wrong with you?' she said in that voice so melting and so sweet that few could resist it.
'Oh, Aunt Cecil, I'm so unhappy--I'm alone. I have no one to love me now but Jean.'
'Poor little Jean! She seems very happy,' said Mrs Constable; 'but I'm afraid she'll make dirty marks on your white counterpane, child.'
'As if I cared. I'd stand more than that for love.'
'Now, Hollyhock,' replied Mrs Constable, 'I must get to the bottom of this. You are my own dear little girl, remember, and I must find out whether you are ill or not.'
'Of course I 'm ill; that is, I 'm a little ill.'
'I have a thermometer with me. I'll take your temperature,' said Mrs Constable.
'Auntie, I would so much rather you didn't.'
'I 'm afraid I must, child; for if you have a temperature, I must send for Dr Maguire.'
'You need not, my child, if you have no temperature. Now, let me try; for afterwards I have some very exciting news to tell you. None of the other girls know it yet.'
'Oh, auntie, you do excite me! Yes, I 'll put the little thermometer into my mouth. I hope I sha'n't break it, though.'
'You must be careful, Hollyhock; for were you to swallow all that mercury, it would kill you.'
'Oh, auntie, what dreadful things you say! Well, stick it in, and then tell me the news that none of the others know.'
The thermometer was inserted. Hollyhock's temperature was perfectly normal, and she was then questioned with regard to her throat and her health generally. In the end Aunt Cecilia pronounced the girl quite well, and desired her to get up and dress.
'But I--the reeling in my head,' said Hollyhock.
'That will pass, after you have had a nice warm bath and put on one of your pretty frocks.'
'Oh, but, auntie, I do want to hear the news.'
'You shall hear it after you are dressed. I don't tell exciting news to little girls who lie in bed. The effect might be bad for them and bring on fever.'
'Oh, auntie, I don't want the servants to come near me.'
'They needn't, child. I'll turn on the hot water in the bath, and then help you to put on your prettiest dress. Why, Jasper is just pining to see you. Now, then, no more talk. The hours are passing, and quick 's the word.'
'Auntie, you have a nice way of saying things.'