“Jessie, where is sister Salome? Tell her tea is ready.”
The orphan went down and took her seat, but did not even 336 glance at the master of the house, who looked anxiously at her as she entered.
During the meal Jessie asked for some sweetmeats that were placed in front of her sister, and, as the latter drew the glass dish nearer, and proceeded to help her, the child exclaimed,—
“Oh, look there! What is that dripping from your sleeve? Ugh! it is blood.”
“Nonsense, Jessie! don’t be silly. Hush! and eat your supper.”
Two drops of blood had fallen on the table-cloth, and the girl instantly set her cup and saucer over them.
She felt the slow stream trickling down to her wrist, and put her arm in her lap.
“Is anything the matter?” asked Dr. Grey, who had observed the quick movement.
“I hurt my arm a little, that is all.”
Her tone forbade a renewal of inquiry, and, as soon as possible, she withdrew to her room, to adjust the bandage.