The woman crept near and looked on, eagerly, lovingly, but timorously,--like one who fears a repulse; indeed, she tried furtively to touch the man's forehead, and jumped back, the picture of fright, when I turned unconsciously toward her.

It was pitiful to see.
"Lord," I said, "stroke him, lass, if you want to.

Do anything you're a mind to; don't mind me." Why, her eyes were as grateful as an animal's, when you do it a kindness that it understands.

The baby was out of her way and she had her cheek against the man's in a minute and her hands fondling his hair, and her happy tears running down.

The man revived and caressed his wife with his eyes, which was all he could do.