"Oh, no," answered the child in tones of alarm. "Oh, she wouldn't let me come home before school is out."
"There, there, don't cry," begged the teacher. "You may go back to your seat if you wish."
Marian did so and was soon asleep again. At recess she awoke to find herself alone in the room with Miss Beck.
"You had better go home, dear," the teacher urged. "I am sure you are ill. Let me help you put on your coat and hood."
"I can't go home until school is out," and Marian began to cry.
"Why not?"
"Because on account of my aunt. She wouldn't let me come home."
"But you are ill, Marian."
"She won't let me be sick," was the sobbing reply, "and I don't dare go home. You don't know my aunt. I guess I feel better. I want to go where it isn't so hot."
The teacher was young and hopeful. "Perhaps you will feel better if you go out to play," was her reply.