"He had seen no one but Watson and myself."
"Do you think there was heart trouble that night? Tell me frankly."
"Yes, most certainly there was; but, my baby, heart trouble comes from various causes, and I really do not think your father's physical condition justifies any serious uneasiness. He is evidently alarmed, but nervous strain and mental worry are sufficient to produce all his symptoms, and you will find that retirement from congressional complications expedites recovery in such cases."
The girlish form relaxed, and a hot cheek was pressed against the foster-mother's face.
"Don't comfort me with false hopes, unless you are sure I am unduly frightened."
"Listen to me. I am absolutely certain that Judge Kent's health need cause you no alarm in future. Now, shake off that nightmare, and go to sleep like a good child, or I will certainly dose you with bromide."
She kissed her softly, and with an arm about her waist led her back to her bed.
"Ma-Lila, I want to forget the last three weeks. Won't you help me?"