"Oh, sir! can I do nothing for you?"
"Sit still. Do not leave me, I beg of you." He drew her back to the seat, and after a short silence said slowly—
"Electra, are you afraid of death?"
"No, sir."
"Do you know that I am dying?"
"I have seen you as ill several times before."
"You are a brave, strong-hearted child; glazed eyes and stiffened limbs will not frighten you. I have but few hours to live; put your hand in mine, and promise me that you will sit here till my soul quits its clay prison. Will you watch with me the death of the year? Are you afraid to stay with me, and see me die?"
She would not trust herself to speak, but laid her hand in his and clasped it firmly. He smiled, and added—
"Will you promise to call no one? I want no eyes but yours to watch me as I die. Let there be only you and me."
"I promise."