It was almost a relief to think that she would be away this time when he came home.
That old Mother Kirstine should be laid up, was, in its way, an event in the place.

Having been professed sick-nurse for so many years, she was connected by ties of grateful recollection with a number of families.
Men who were now fathers themselves remembered well her face bending over them when as children they had tossed about in measles or fever; and when any more serious illness now occurred in any of their households, she appeared upon the scene as a matter of course without waiting to be sent for.

And it was a comfort in itself to see that strong, self-possessed old woman, with her quiet experienced tact and untiring faculty of keeping awake, moving about the sick-bed, and giving her directions with a confidence that brooked no contradiction.

Her position, in fact, was such, that when a new doctor arrived he soon perceived that the first thing he had to do, if he was to have any reputation in the town, would be to win the confidence of old Mother Kirstine.
Young Fru Beck, amongst others, had constantly sent to inquire after her; and when she heard that Elizabeth was there, she could not resist the opportunity of going to see her.
It was one evening before dinner--Mother Kirstine had fallen into a quiet sleep, and Elizabeth was sitting by her bedside, when she saw Fru Beck pass the window.

Elizabeth knew she would come in, and sat with beating heart waiting for her knock at the door.
Fru Beck must have stood a long while in the porch, for some minutes passed before the latch was stirred.