"My darling Susie," said mother, "I had not time to come to you. I never dreamt you were awake. Dick is much better; but he has been very bad, and he must go to sleep."
"Mother, let me tell you! I am so wicked. I felt sure they would not be really naughty; I felt certain—"
"Susie," said mother faintly, "I must go to sleep too. Some other time we will talk it over, but not now."
"But I can't sleep," said Susie, "unless I tell you first."
"Come, Susie, try. I am sure it would be a great comfort to make excuses; but, just for once, choose the harder part, and say nothing. You and I, Susie, must get our beauty-sleep."
She stroked the flaxen pigtail and gently unloosed Susie's clinging hands.
"Come, let me tuck you in," she said.
"Nurse is going to stay with Dick. Susie, I am very, very tired."
Susie's sobs ceased suddenly, and she stood up straight. It was the hardest battle she had ever fought, but she was never one for half measures. In perfect silence she allowed her mother to lead her away and tuck her comfortably into the little bed, where Amy patiently waited for her, and then, still silently, she put her two arms round her mother and hugged her.
"Oh, thank you, Susie," mother said gratefully.