"It was almost rheumatic fever; but I am glad to say she escaped it. But she is so happy, Miss Arundel."
"I am very glad to hear that," answered Nellie.
"And so am I. If for nothing else, I shall ever thank you for that."
He sat on talking for about half-an-hour; and Nellie told him the sad story, feeling comforted by his sympathy. The time flew by quickly, and just as he was rising to go, Dr. Arundel came in.
Wilmot did not, however, remain long, as he feared to intrude on the bereaved family; and soon Nellie was free to go upstairs to see how Ada was, and find Christina.
"Why did you not come down, dear?" she asked, bending over her future sister, and giving her a kiss.
"I did not know he was here till just now, and anyhow I should not have come."
"Why not?"
"He would not know me, and I think you would get on better alone this first visit."
"Yes, it was very sad; so different from the pleasant call I thought he would make when he would come to see dear mamma."