"Very kind," answered Nellie; "and if there is time—"
"Abundance of time; it is only eleven o'clock now. You need not return here, the pony carriage shall call for you at half-past eleven."
Before she went downstairs, Nellie softly entered Hope's room.
"Going out?" said Hope sleepily; then opening her eyes, "Why, Nellie, you look sad, dear; what is it?"
"I can't explain," she answered hurriedly; "mamma is ill, and I am going home."
Hope took her hand, but beyond an exclamation of dismay, knew not what to say.
"I could not bear to go without thanking you for all your kindness; but I'm afraid I have disturbed you."
"Not at all; but, Nellie, don't you mention kindness, for you know it has been all on your side. I shall never forget you."
Nellie kissed her, and was already at the door, when suddenly she came to the bedside again, and said hesitatingly, "Could you spare me one or two of these wild rosebuds to take home?"
"Certainly; but take some nice flowers out of the garden, Nellie. Pick some before you go; these are worth nothing to those."