How came this, Jessie ?" "Bruises?
Are you certain ?" "Why, yes, child! and bad ones, too." Mrs.Dexter looked surprised.

She raised her hand to her cheek and temple, and pressing slightly, was conscious of pain.
"I believe I fainted in the parlor this afternoon," she said; "I must have fallen to the floor." "Fainted! From what cause ?" asked Mrs.Loring.
Mrs.Dexter was silent.
"Was it from sudden illness ?" "Yes." Mrs.Loring was not satisfied with this brief answer.

Imagination suggested some personal outrage.
"Was Mr.Dexter in the parlor when you fainted ?" she asked.
"Yes." "Why did he not save you from falling ?" "I am very cold, aunt; and my head turns.

Let me lie down." Mrs.
Dexter made an effort to rise.

As Mrs.Loring caught her arms, she felt them shiver.