It is not myself they are interested in, but the cause and purpose of my presence under this roof." I paused to wonder over the fact that the one member of the family who might be supposed to resent my intrusion most was the one who took it most kindly and with least token of surprise--Mrs.Packard.
"She accepts me easily enough," thought I."To her I am a welcome companion.

What am I to these ?" The answer, or rather a possible answer, came speedily.

At nine o'clock Mayor Packard entered the room from his study across the hall, and, seeing me alone, came forward briskly.

"Mrs.Packard has company and I am on my way to the drawing-room, but I am happy to have the opportunity of assuring you that already she looks better, and that I begin to hope that your encouraging presence may stimulate her to throw aside her gloom and needless apprehensions.

I shall be eternally grateful to you if it will.