Sophy had gone out.

He did not turn his head to look further; his languid eyes falling aimlessly upon the carpet at his bedside suddenly dilated.

For they fell also on the "smallest foot in the State." He started to his elbow, but a soft hand was laid gently yet firmly upon his shoulder, and with a faint rustle of muslin skirts Miss Sally rose from an unseen chair at the head of his bed, and stood beside him.
"Don't stir, co'nnle, I didn't sit where I could look in yo'r face for fear of waking yo'.

But I'll change seats now." She moved to the chair which Sophy had vacated, drew it slightly nearer the bed, and sat down.
"It was very kind of you--to come," said Courtland hesitatingly, as with a strong effort he drew his eyes away from the fascinating vision, and regained a certain cold composure, "but I am afraid my illness has been greatly magnified.

I really am quite well enough to be up and about my business, if the doctor would permit it.