Tommy came reluctantly . He did n't like Miss Octavia any better than he had , and he did n't know what she wanted of him . But Miss Octavia soon informed him without loss of words . `` Tommy , Miss Matheson tells me that it was you who saved my flowers from the frost the other night . I 'm very much obliged to you indeed . Whatever made you think of doing it ? '' `` I hated to see the flowers spoiled , '' muttered Tommy , who was feeling more uncomfortable than he had ever felt in his life . `` Well , it was real thoughtful of you . I 'm sorry I 've been so hard on you , Tommy , and I believe now you did n't break my scarlet geranium . Is there anything I can do for you -- anything you 'd like to have ? If it 's in reason I 'll get it for you , just to pay my debt . '' Tommy stared at Miss Octavia with a sudden hopeful inspiration . `` Oh , Miss Octavia , '' he cried eagerly , `` will you buy a doll and give it to me ? '' `` Well , for the land 's sake ! '' ejaculated Miss Octavia , unable to believe her ears . `` A doll ! What on earth do you want of a doll ? '' `` It 's for Bessie , '' said Tommy eagerly . `` You see , it 's this way . '' Then Tommy told Miss Octavia the whole story .
Miss XXXXX listened silently , sometimes nodding her head .
Bessie Matheson Octavia Tommy anything doll frost geranium life night