[CHAPTER XV.]
SUNRISE.
THE early daylight was stealing into the room, when Dr. Arundel became certain that his dearly-loved one was no longer there.
He drew his hand from under the sweet cheek, which had not been wasted by long illness, and gently laid her back by little Tom.
He knelt down by her side and laid his head against her arm. "My dear, my dear," he said softly, "what shall I do without you?"
Then, afraid lest Nurse Raymond should come in, he pressed one kiss on the lifeless lips, and promising himself some quiet time with his beloved by-and-by, he went round the bed to lift little Tom from his resting-place.
Nurse Raymond entered at the moment; and as they carried Tom into the next room, his father heard him murmur:
"What is it, papa? Why are you moving me? Doesn't she want me any more?"
"No, dear," he answered gently, hoping Tom would be satisfied without further questions.