It was a fervent demonstration to them, the evidence of unwonted excitement and the deepest feeling.

When Mrs.Field entered her sitting-room, the first object that met her eyes was Lois' face.

She was tilted back in the rocking-chair, her slender throat was exposed, her lips were slightly parted, and there was a glassy gleam between her half-open eyelids.

Her mother stood looking at her.
Suddenly Lois opened her eyes wide and sat up.

"What are you standing there looking at me so for, mother ?" she said, in her weak, peevish voice.
"I ain't lookin' at you, child.