"Oh, do you mean it?" said Florence; her face flushed, and then turned pale.  She had a wild, wild thought that even if she failed her mother would not turn from her.  She had a choking sensation in her throat, which made her feel that even in the moment of absolute defeat the little Mummy's kisses would be supporting, cheering, encouraging. Tears brimmed into her eyes.  "You are very good," she said.