"A slight cold, I believe; at any rate, do not let us disturb him," said May, surprised and shocked at her evident pleasure.
"What nonsense!" cried Helen, laughing hysterically; "he'll live until you and I are both dead, May. He's as tough as gutta percha. But, would it not be a nice thing if he'd pop off suddenly, and leave us his money?"
"Do not say us, Helen. I expect nothing, and desire nothing. As for you, be satisfied; you are handsomely provided for."
"I know it; I know it. I have read the will!" exulted Helen.
"Read the will, Helen! How? When?"
"Oh, I did not mean that exactly," said Helen, much confused; "you really take me up so quick, that it is terrible. I should have said that Walter told me something of the old man's intentions."
"May it be blessed to you, Helen, come when it will; but while he lives, let his generous intentions in your favor purchase at least your respect," said May, in a tone of bitter reproof, for at the moment she recollected Helen's threat some weeks before to get into her uncle's chamber, if possible, and she feared that she had accomplished her object at the expense of all that was honorable in feeling, and just in principle.
"May, you won't say anything—about—about what I just blundered out concerning the—" said Helen, confused and stammering.
"No, Helen; I have nothing to say. It was natural, though not delicate, for Mr. Jerrold to impart such information to you. No doubt he thought it would enhance your happiness," said May, settling herself in her uncle's chair.
"That's a good May. Oh, May, if you were not such a little fanatic how I should love you," said Helen, stooping over to kiss May's forehead; but she put up her hand, and the kiss fell on the tips of her fingers. But her very indignation, although just, humbled her, for with a flash of thought, she was in Gethsemane, and saw the meek and Divine Jesus receive the kiss of Judas. "Why, then," she thought, "should I shrink back from one who needs my pity more than my hate?"