"Yes, I do, pet; I know exactly."
"No one but a mother can know. I used to be everything to him once, and now he is only glad to get well because of her!"
"Well, it's natural. We——"
"No, we didn't. We had no mothers. But never mind—I won't be selfish. I will go and fetch her at once."
"Would you rather I went?"
"Certainly not! Do you suppose I want them to go on thinking that you are their only friend, and I their implacable enemy? I want to make him happy as much as ever you can do."
"That's right, old girl. If you're going to do a kind thing, do it the kindest way you know. They'll be just fit to worship you, both of 'em."
I did not ask to be worshipped, but I did want my boy to love his mother a little. I ran to him, brushing the nurse aside.
"Dearest," I whispered, "I am going to bring Emily. She shall sit with you as long and as often as you like. She shall be your wife, if you want her. I will make a daughter of her—for your sake."
I took the kiss I had so richly earned, and hurried to the schoolroom. There sat Miss Blount, still faded and tearful, but beaming with the joy that filled the house, like the sun through rain. She and Lily had been crying and rejoicing together, congratulating one another. I waved the child aside, and, taking her governess by the hand, with a "Come, dear," which I could see explained everything in a moment, led her into Harry's room.