Alfred kissed his mother's face, and covered it. Then he held out his hand to his grandfather, who took it in silence, and looked at him wistfully. But Alfred only said, humbly,
"I am tired, sir. You have been very good to us, and I will try to deserve it."
They went to the door, and the old man opened it, and saw Lily lying on the ground.
"Lily!" he cried, in alarm.
The girl slowly rose and stood before him. Her eyes were closed; she was asleep.
"Lily, my darling!" he said, tenderly placing his arm round her, "Why have you been sleeping here?"
The girl did not answer, but nestled in his arms as if she found comfort there. He led her into the room, and she accompanied him unresistingly.
"She has been overwrought, poor child," said the old man in a troubled voice.
They stood in silence for a few moments, almost fearing to speak; she still sleeping, with her sweet face turned towards the morning light, which, gradually growing brighter, illumined the strange group.