She begged us to tell her how long she had to live; and then asked for the children.' The pony-carriage was sent; and Mrs.Hackit, returning to Mr.Barton, said she would like to go up-stairs now.

He went up-stairs with her and opened the door.

The chamber fronted the west; the sun was just setting, and the red light fell full upon the bed, where Milly lay with the hand of death visibly upon her.

The feather-bed had been removed, and she lay low on a mattress, with her head slightly raised by pillows.

Her long fair neck seemed to be struggling with a painful effort; her features were pallid and pinched, and her eyes were closed.