Muriel was so excited that she did not notice the door open, and turned with a start as Miss Holcroft said—
"Here is Marigold's mother, Muriel, to give us the latest bulletin!"
"Marigold is sleeping quietly, I am glad to say," Mrs. Holcroft responded, in hopeful tones; then, turning to Muriel, "Are you one of my little girl's friends?"
"Yes. I am Muriel Wake."
"Ah! I have heard of you. Marigold will want to see you as soon as she is a little stronger, I feel sure. You were at Boscombe during the summer holidays, were you not?"
Mrs. Holcroft sat down by Muriel's side and entered into conversation with her. At first the child was rather reserved in her manner, for the sight of Marigold's mother brought back the remembrance of her old treachery, but she soon lost all feeling of restraint, and chatted in her usual bright fashion, till Mrs. Holcroft's pale, tired face was lit up with smiles.
"Muriel, you will be late for afternoon school," Miss Holcroft reminded her at last. "I really think you must go, my dear."
"Yes, Miss Holcroft," Muriel agreed. "Oh, won't the girls be glad to hear my good news to-day!"
She took her departure hastily now, after a hurried farewell, and hastened on her way with a smiling face that told of intense happiness and joy.
The whole school learnt that Marigold Holcroft was better, with feelings of relief and thankfulness, for she was becoming a general favourite with the pupils now, as she had been with the teachers at first. Grace Long murmured a fervent "Thank God!" which Muriel echoed in her heart.