"Oh, yes, I know! But your mother's different. I thought, when I heard she was an invalid, she would be a sad sort of person, always grumbling and cross; but she is much brighter than most people."
That evening Stella knocked at her aunt's door and inquired if she was alone.
"Yes, Stella, quite alone, and I shall be delighted if you will bear me company for a while. Come in, and let us have a chat."
The child crept softly to Mrs. Knight's side, and asked how she was feeling.
"Pretty well, my dear. I have had a bad headache, but it is better."
"You are sure I shall not worry you, aunt?" anxiously.
"Quite sure, Stella. You are such a quiet little mouse, the very sound of your voice is soothing."
Stella looked gratified, and pressed her aunt's hand affectionately.
"I cannot think how you can be so patient," she said, "for I know you suffer a great deal sometimes. Uncle told me so. I wish I could help you."
"Thank you, my dear. All the love and sympathy I get from my dear ones is a great help to me. And then, you know, I have God's help too."