I'm over it now." "That's all, madam," said the men who had brought him home.

"He merely fainted.

Don't be alarmed.

It's all over." After receiving the thanks of Claire and his assurances that he needed nothing further from their kindness, the men retired, and Edward then made every effort in his power to calm down the feelings of his wife, who continued weeping.

This was no easy task, particularly as he was unable long to hide the many evidences of serious illness from which he was suffering.