Mr.Woodstock sometimes sat by her whilst she slept, or seemed to be sleeping; when she stirred and showed consciousness of his presence, he left her, so great was his fear of annoying her, and thus losing the ground he had gained.

Once, when he was rising to quit the room, Ida held out her hand as if to stay him.

She was lying on a sofa, and had enjoyed a very quiet sleep.
"Grandfather," she murmured, turning to face him.

It was the first time she had addressed him thus, and the old man's eyes brightened at the sound.
"Are you better for the sleep, Ida ?" he asked, taking the hand she had extended.
"Much; much better.

How the sun shines!" "Yes, it's a fine day.