It was unutterable agony to him.
His gift was a Bible, the boy's own choice; and he laid it on the pillow where Felix would find it as soon as his eyes opened.

He bent over him, and kissed him with trembling lips.

Hilda stirred a little when his lips touched her soft, rosy face, and she half opened her eyes, whispering "Father," and then fell asleep again smiling.

He dared not linger another moment, but passing stealthily away, he paused listening at another door, his face white with anguish.

"I dare not see Felicita," he murmured to himself, "but I must look on my mother's face once again." The door made no sound as he opened it, and his feet fell noiselessly on the thick carpet; but as he drew near his mother's bed, her eyes opened with a clear steady gaze as if she had been awaiting his coming.