And Dr. Arundel had not had the heart to refuse.
Arthur followed his sisters upstairs, and sat down by his mother's side.
"Dear Arthur," she whispered softly, "will you remember a text I have been thinking of for you?"
"I will try, mother," he whispered in return.
"This is what it is, 'Fear not; I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward.'"
"I will not forget, mother," he said, and as he uttered the words, he felt it was good-bye.
"Are the little ones in bed, Nellie?" she asked, as Nellie came and stood by her.
"Not quite."
"And baby?"
"Just ready for bed."