But what a long time it does take to die." But that was yesterday.
The lane had come to an ending at last, and Mr.Reffold lay dead.
They bore him to the little mortuary chapel.

And Bernardine stayed with Mrs.Reffold, who seemed afraid to be alone.

She clung to Bernardine's hand.
"No, no," she said excitedly, "you must not go! I can't bear to be alone: you must stay with me!" She expressed no sorrow, no regret.

She did not even speak his name.
She just sat nursing her beautiful face.
Once or twice Bernardine tried to slip away.

This waiting about was a strain on her, and she felt that she was doing no good.
But each time Mrs.Reffold looked up and prevented her.
"No, no," she said.