At length, she said, in a trembling voice: 'I hope not, Oliver.

I have been very happy with her for some years: too happy, perhaps.

It may be time that I should meet with some misfortune; but I hope it is not this.' 'What ?' inquired Oliver.
'The heavy blow,' said the old lady, 'of losing the dear girl who has so long been my comfort and happiness.' 'Oh! God forbid!' exclaimed Oliver, hastily.
'Amen to that, my child!' said the old lady, wringing her hands.
'Surely there is no danger of anything so dreadful ?' said Oliver.

'Two hours ago, she was quite well.' 'She is very ill now,' rejoined Mrs.Maylies; 'and will be worse, I am sure.

My dear, dear Rose! Oh, what shall I do without her!' She gave way to such great grief, that Oliver, suppressing his own emotion, ventured to remonstrate with her; and to beg, earnestly, that, for the sake of the dear young lady herself, she would be more calm.
'And consider, ma'am,' said Oliver, as the tears forced themselves into his eyes, despite of his efforts to the contrary.