"Has nurse gone away?" he asked, when he had emptied the cup.
"Yes, she was called to another, a more urgent case, and we felt obliged to let her go. I am here to take care of you, if you will let me."
"You are very kind," said Gus, regarding her with some wonder. "Are you a nurse, then?"
"Not professionally; but I have had much experience of nursing," replied the lady gently. "I believe I can take proper care of you."
"Oh, I am sure of that," said Gus quickly. "Will you tell me what your name is, please?"
"My name is Durrant," she replied; "I am Edith's mother."
"Miss Edith's mother!" said Gus looking very pleased. "Ah, to be sure! I remember hearing that you had come home from India."
"That was some time ago," said Mrs. Durrant. "Gus, will you be very much surprised if I tell you that I am not only Edith's mother, but also your aunt?"
"My aunt!" repeated Gus, in astonishment. "But how can that be? I have not an aunt."
"You did not know that you had one," said Mrs. Durrant, trying to smile, but with tears rising in her eyes. "Gus, from what Mr. Mouncey has told me, and from seeing that Bible, which I recognise as one which formerly belonged to my mother, I am convinced that your father was my only brother—the brother left so early to my care, and dearer to me than words can tell; but who—alas!—wandered into evil ways, and was lost to us whilst yet he lived."