I sprang to my feet and screamed.

Peggy, who was already on the threshold, caught her as she fell forward, and laid her on the bed as if she were a little child.

She was in a fainting fit.

I had seen her before in these deathlike swoons, but never had I watched with such shuddering dread to see the dawn of awakening life break upon her face.

I stood at her pillow scarcely less pale and cold than herself.
"This is all your doings, Miss Gabriella," muttered Peggy, while busily engaged in the task of restoration.