“I am so glad I have found you,” said she; “because sister Mary is dying.”
“And who is sister Mary?”
“My sister, Mary Maconie, at Juniper Green.”
Whereupon the gentleman began to remember that the name of William Maconie was in his books as holder of a policy.
“And what more?”
“My father says the pelican insured Mary’s life, and I want you to come direct and do it, because I couldn’t live if Mary were to die. And there’s no time to be lost.”
“Oh! I see, dear; and who sent you?”
“Nobody,” answered Annie. “My father wouldn’t come to you, and I have come from Juniper Green myself, without telling my father or mother.”
“Oh yes, dear; I understand you.”
“But you must do it quick,” continued she, “because the doctor says she’s in great danger; so you must come with me, and save her immediately.”