CHAPTER VIII.
"I bless thee for kind looks and words Showered on my path like dew, For all the love in those deep eyes, A gladness ever new." -- MRS.

HEMANS.
A week had passed since Edward's accident; and he now exchanged his bed, during the day, for an easy-chair.
He and Zoe had just finished taking their breakfast together in her boudoir when a servant came in with the mail.
There were letters from Viamede,--one for Edward from his mother, one for Zoe from Betty Johnson.
Both brought the unwelcome tidings that little Grace Raymond and Violet's babe were very ill with scarlet-fever.
Edward read aloud his mother's announcement of the fact.

"Yes," said Zoe.

"Betty tells me the same thing.

O Ned! how sorry I am for poor Vi! It would be hard enough for her if she had the captain with her, to help bear the burden and responsibility, and to share in her grief if they should die." "Yes, it is hard for her; and I am glad she has mamma and grandpa and grandma with her.