implored Una . `` But , dearie , I do n't want help . I 'm quite able to do all the work here . And I never thought I 'd like to have a home girl if I did need help . '' The light went out of Una 's eyes . Her lips trembled . She sat down on her stool again , a pathetic little figure of disappointment , and began to cry . `` Do n't -- dearie -- do n't , '' exclaimed Miss Cornelia in distress . She could never bear to hurt a child . `` I do n't say I WO N'T take her -- but the idea is so new it has just kerflummuxed me . I must think it over . '' `` Mary is SO smart , '' said Una again . `` Humph ! So I 've heard . I 've heard she swears , too . Is that true ? '' `` I 've never heard her swear EXACTLY , '' faltered Una uncomfortably . `` But I 'm afraid she COULD . '' `` I believe you ! Does she always tell the truth ? ''
`` I think she does , except when she 's afraid XXXXX a whipping . ''
Humph Mary So if in of on over that to