“Yes”—unsteadily.
“VERY much?”
“YES.”
“Why don't you eat something?”
“Because you don't. I'm waiting for you to.”
“Shan't you ever?”
“Not if you don't.”
Rebecca Mary caught her breath in a sob. “Shall I be—to blame?” She was moving towards the door now. With an irresistible impulse Aunt Olivia gathered her in her arms, and covered her lean little face with kisses.
“You poor little thing! You poor little thing! You poor little thing!” over and over.
Rebecca Mary gazed up into the softened face and read something there. It took her breath away. She could not believe it without further proof.