The morning of that critical day found Grandma Elsie as calm and cheerful as she had been the previous evening, though every other face among the older members of the family showed agitation and anxiety.

Her daughters, Elsie and Violet, were with her almost constantly during the early hours, doing everything in their power to show their devoted affection and make all things ready for the surgeons and their assistants; her father and his wife also giving their aid and loving sympathy, while Edward and Zoe attended to necessary arrangements elsewhere, occasionally snatching a moment to stand beside the dear sufferer and speak words of love and hope.
Rosie and Walter were allowed one short interview in which they were clasped in her arms and a few loving, tender words spoken that both she and they felt might be the last.
Captain Raymond came a little earlier than the doctor.

Lester was already there, and each young wife found the presence of her husband a comfort and support while, in an adjoining room, they waited in almost agonizing suspense to hear that the operation was over and what was the result.
They were a silent group, every heart going up in strong crying to God, that, if consistent with his holy will, the dear mother might be spared to them.
And the united petition was granted; Mrs.Dinsmore presently came to them, her face radiant with joy and hope.

"It is over," she said; "successfully over, and the doctors say that with the good nursing she is sure to have she will soon be restored to perfect health." The communication was received with tears of joy and thankfulness.
"It will be strange indeed if she lacks anything the most devoted nurses can do for her," remarked Mr.Leland.
"I should think so, with three daughters, two sons, and as many sons-in-law, to say nothing of father and mother," remarked Violet, with a tearful smile.

"Levis, you will spare me to her as long as I am needed ?" "Certainly, my love," he replied, without a moment's hesitation; "there is nothing we could refuse, or grudge to our beloved mother at this, or indeed at any time." "O grandma, may we go to her now ?" queried Rose and Walter in a breath.
"I think not yet, dears; she must be kept very, very quiet," was the gently spoken reply.