I shall feel secure then." I rose with alacrity, rejoicing that the poor girl was going out, even for half an hour.

She was looking terribly wearied and haggard; and the sight of her pale cheeks made my heart ache.

I went to the sick-room; and sat down in my usual place.

Mrs.Grant was then on duty; we had not found it necessary to have more than one person in the room during the day.

When I came in, she took occasion to go about some household duty.