They made way silently for the boys to pass.
Ned opened the door and entered.
Abijah was in the hall.

She was tearless, but her face was white and set.
"My poor boy," she said to Ned, "he is in the parlor; he has just been asking for you.

I am glad you have come.

Your mother is in hysterics in her bedroom, and is going on like a mad woman.

You must be calm, dear, for your father's sake." Ned gave a little nod, and, taking his brother's hand, opened the door of the parlor.
Captain Sankey was lying on the hearth rug, his head propped up with pillows from the sofa; his face was an ashen pallor, and his eyes were closed.