With an air of relief, Mrs. Allen took the hint, and left them alone again. When she was gone, the boy settled back on his pillow, saying gratefully,—
"It is awfully nice to have you here. Tell some more about the fellows."
So Bess talked on, racking her brains for any bright, funny bit of gossip that could rouse the lad from his depression, and give him something to think of during the many sad, lonely hours that she saw were in store for him. But the dreamy chime of the cathedral clock on the mantel, as it struck four, reminded her of her promise to see Rob after school, and she rose to go, saying brightly,—
"Now, my boy, I have worn you all out with such a long visit, for a first one. I must go now, for Rob is coming up after school, and I must be at home in time to see him. I hope I sha'n't drown on the way," she added, as a fresh gust of wind brought a flurry of rain against the windows.
"I wish you needn't go," said the child. "It has been so jolly to see you again. You haven't been here but a few minutes."
"An hour and a half, exactly," answered Bess, "but I'm coming again real soon."
In the early twilight of the stormy day, the room was growing dark. As Bess stooped to say good-by to the boy, she was surprised to feel the hot tears on his cheeks. Sitting down on the edge of the sofa, she drew his head over into her lap, and stroked his face in silence, for she felt no words could comfort the little lad.
"If you only needn't go," he said. "It all seems so much easier when you are here. Miss Bessie, I can't stand it! What shall I do?"
"Fred, I know it is hard, so very hard. I wish I could stay with you always, if you want me. But I will truly come again in a day or two. We are all so sorry for you, and long to help you." Then she asked, "May Rob come some day to see you? He is such a good little nurse."
Fred shook his head.