I should like to see you with a happier look on your face before I die.' Gilbert had no reply ready.
'You think too poorly of yourself,' his mother resumed, 'and you always have done.

But there's people have a better judgment of you.

Haven't you thought that somebody looks always very pleased when you read or talk, and sits very quiet when you've nothing to say, and always says good-night to you so prettily ?' 'Mother, mother, don't speak like that! I've thought nothing of the kind.

Put that out of your head; never speak of it again.' His voice was not untender, but very grave.

The lines of his face hardened.