"Oh yes, ma'am," said Simmons, "it is ready, for we have just made our kitchen tea."
She hastened away, and in a minute brought back three cups of hot tea, and some bread and butter.
"You and Miss Nellie had better take some too; the Doctor will not be in till nearly six, ma'am."
"Drink yours, Nellie," said Christina; "I shall take this to Ada first. I can stay a day or two if you like."
"Like!" answered Nellie. "It would be the greatest comfort I could have."
"Dear Nellie, I am so glad to hear you say so. I shall be so glad to help you. I told my aunt not to expect me back yet."
"How did you hear?"
"Your father telegraphed to me this morning."
She took the tea and went up into the darkened room, passing on her way that other room, so still and quiet, where she longed to enter, but must not yet.
Ada lay much in the same position as she had done in the morning, and Christina closed the door and placed her little tray on the table, in a firm audible way which somewhat aroused her. She listened, without moving; and Christina, when her preparations were completed, came to her side, and said kindly, "Here is your tea, Ada."