After various unsuccessful efforts, she resorted to the following expedient.

As she heard her cross the entry below, to ascend the stairs, she slipped out and held the latch of the door which led into the upper entry.
"James does not want to see you, or any one else," she said.
Aunt Abby hesitated, and returned slowly to her own room; wondering if it were really James' wish not to see her.

She did not venture again that day, but still felt disturbed and anxious about him.

She inquired of Frado, and learned that he was no worse.

She asked her if James did not wish her to come and see him; what could it mean?
Quite late next morning, Susan came to see what had become of her aunt.
"Your mother said James did not wish to see me, and I was afraid I tired him." "Why, aunt, that is a mistake, I KNOW.