This was too much for David’s composure, and he gave way to an infectious fit of laughter, in which the pupils joined.
Little Teacher found the allusion personal and uncomfortable. She at once assumed her former distant mien, demanding David’s presence after school closed.
“You have no gratitude, David,” she stated emphatically.
The boy winced, and his eyes darkened with concern, as he remembered his mother’s parting injunction. 119
Little Teacher softened slightly.
“You are sorry, aren’t you, David?” she asked gently.
He looked at her meditatively.
“No, Teacher,” he answered quietly.
She flushed angrily.
“David Dunne, you may go home, and you needn’t come back to school again until you tell me you are sorry.”