I was allowed to eat what I craved.

I indulged my inordinate hunger, and came nearer to death than with the fever itself.

But from this I rallied by the strength of my youth and a great vitality.

All the while Zoe and Miss Spurgeon watched over me with the most tender care.
And one day I came out of a sleep to find Reverdy Clayton by the bed.
A father could not have looked at me with more solicitude.

His voice was grave and tender.