At length Philippus returned; he was rejoiced at his new friend's brightened aspect, and declared that Mandane had, under her care, got past the first and worst danger, and might be expected to recover, slowly indeed, but completely.
After Paula had renewed the compress--and he intentionally left her to do it unaided, he said encouragingly: "How quickly you have learnt your business .-- Now, the patient is asleep again; the Sister will keep watch, and for the present we can be of no use to the girl; sleep is the best nourishment she can have.

But with us--or at any rate with me, it is different.

We have still two hours to wait for the next meal: my breakfast is standing untouched, and yours no doubt fared the same; so be my guest.

They always send up enough to satisfy six bargemen." Paula liked the proposal, for she had long been hungry.

The nun was desired to hasten to fetch some more plates, of drinking-vessels there was no lack--and soon the new allies were seated face to face, each at a small table.