"Oh, well, if you want to kill me with a scene, go and tell Tom," she exclaimed, throwing herself back on her pillows; "I shall be worried to death at last."
Mellen was anxious to soothe her, and against his judgment submitted.
"I'll go, darling; I'll go."
"Good Grant; kind brother! Send Victoria to me; I will be all dressed when you come back."
Mellen went out and called the servant, then he passed downstairs, and in the hall met Tom, who rushed towards him, exclaiming:
"The woman says Elsie is very sick; is she better; what is it?"
"She is much better; don't be frightened; she will be downstairs in a few minutes."
"Thank God," muttered Tom, his face still white with fears that Victoria had aroused.
Mellen was too much preoccupied to notice his extreme agitation, or speculate upon its cause if he had observed it.
"I only got back this afternoon," said Tom, "and I hurried over here at once. How is Bessie?"