"Do get up and go to bed," she said.

"Where is Martha ?" "I did not want her," said Alice; "and am now going to bed myself.

What has brought you here ?" "Because I felt anxious about you," said Mrs.Weston, "and came, as I have often before, to be assured that you were well and enjoying repose.

I find you still up; and now, my daughter, there is a question I have feared to ask you, but can no longer delay it.

By all the love that is between us, by the tie that should bind an only child to a widowed mother, will you tell me what are the thoughts that are oppressing you?
I have been anxious for your health, but is there not more cause to fear for your happiness ?" "I am well enough, dear mother," said Alice, with some irritation of manner, "Do not concern yourself about me.