"My dear, we cannot always know what will happen; your father could not bear to make you unhappy unless it were needful."
"I would not have come away for worlds," said Nellie, weeping.
"That has made no real difference, darling. We might always be thinking of difficulties in the future; and you will be strengthened to help by your change."
"But do tell me," said Nellie, looking up with an anguish in her eyes which was sad to see, "do you think—does papa think—that mamma is in danger?"
"He says there always is danger in attacks of the heart."
"I had no idea she was delicate."
"Had you not, dear? Yet no; your father says he fears it will be a great blow to you."
Nellie began to take in the gravity of the news; and her loving relatives were powerless to aid her in the sorrow which she must feel.
"I may go home at once, may I not?" she asked earnestly.
"I am afraid it will be necessary, dear. Your father says he would like you to come at once."