"Let your hand rest there. I now believe in the laying on of hands; my own experience convinces me."
He remained at her bedside for some time, his hand still resting upon her forehead.
At last he said:
"And now arise, my child. I shall expect you at breakfast."
"I am glad there is some one who can command me to 'get up.'"
"I don't command, I simply advise you. But, my dear child, something strange must be going on with you, as you understand nothing in its literal sense."
"Yes, father,--very strange! but that's all over, now."
"Well then, follow me as soon as you can; I shall await you."
The father went out to the arbor, where he awaited her coming. He moved the two cups and the beautiful vase of flowers first to one position, and then to another, and arranged the white table-cloth. Shortly after, Irma entered, clad in a white morning dress.
"You're--you're taller than I thought you were," said the father, a bright color suffusing his face.