"I did not mean to tease you, Roma, but here is some medicine. Put five drops of it upon this bit of cotton and press it into the cavity of your tooth, and it will give you speedy relief. In the morning you must visit a dentist."
Roma lifted her pale face, and answered:
"Yes, I will visit a dentist, but not one at Stonecliff. I will go to Boston by the early train."
"I will go with you and do some shopping," said her mother, who had a very feminine love of finery.
"Very well," the girl answered, scowling behind her hand, for she preferred to go alone on her mission to Granny Jenks.
But she realized that it would not do to offend the only person who seemed to have any real fondness for her, so, making a wry face behind her hand, she went up to Mrs. Clarke, saying gently:
"I did not mean to be cross to you, dear mamma, but I am in such agony with this pain that I could not help my impatience. I want you to forgive me and try not to love me any less for my faults, please."
Mrs. Clarke could not help wondering what favor Roma was planning to ask for now, but she answered sweetly:
"I forgive you, dear, and, of course, I shall always love my daughter."