Margaret did not take any notice of this advice, but made a sign to her cousin to come to the table.
"Not now, Margaret," said Amy; "I shall be quite well amused with these drawings."
A cloud passed over Margaret's very pretty face, and, for the moment, she looked positively ugly, while she muttered, "How unkind! cross thing! I knew she would always interfere."
Amy was vexed, but did not move, and soon became interested in watching Miss Morton's manner to little Rose. It was very quiet and very gentle, but it was quite clear that her will was law; for Rose, whose thoughts had been diverted by the unusual visitor, found great difficulty in finishing her task, and was turned back several times without daring to make a complaint, though a few tears filled her bright hazel eyes, when, after three attempts, the sum was again pronounced incorrect. Margaret, forgetting that she had accused Miss Morton of spoiling Rose, and only anxious to prove her in the wrong, cast a look of triumph at Amy, certain that she would agree with her in thinking it very harsh. But Amy, though so young, was quite capable of discovering the difference between firmness and severity, and did not at all dislike Miss Morton for being particular.
"Indeed, you must be quick, Rose," said Miss Morton, as Dora closed her book, and Margaret prepared to put up her drawing; "you see your sisters are ready for dinner, and we are to have it to-day half an hour earlier than usual, that we may walk to Colworth; you would not like to stay at home."
Poor little Rose looked very unhappy, and began counting the figures again; but her haste only made her the more confused.
"It is very hard," she said, as she offered the slate again to Miss
Morton, "and Amy is here."
Miss Morton smiled, and so sweetly, that it seemed impossible to be afraid of her.
"Well! that is an excuse, I will allow, only it must not be made often; but come and stand by me, and we will do it together."
Rose dried her eyes; and in a very short time the sum was finished, and she went with Miss Morton to get ready for dinner.