Page 184 (1/2)

He followed the wo ive hied, but did not

wish--Willia with her face hidden in

her pillows; one soft braid fell across her shoulder, then sagged down

and lay along the sheet, cruht

That braid, with its tendrils of little loose locks, was a curious

appeal She did not turn as he sat down beside her, and he had to lean

over to touch her wrist with his quiet fingers

"I did not send for you," she said in athe"Sarah, bring Mrs

Richie so to eat"

Helena drew a long, quivering breath; "I wish you would go away There

is nothing the o until you feel better, Mrs Richie"

She was silent Then she turned a little, gathering up the two long

braids so that they fell on each side of her neck and down across her

breast; their soft darkness made the pallor of her face more ht the coffee, the

doctor slipped his hand under her shoulders and lifted her while she