"It shall be as you like; but I know you will not sleep here," said Mr. Haveloc.
"No more sleep," said Aveline, as if to herself.
She remained with her eyes fixed on the ceiling, where, owing to some reflection of the lights, there was a broad luminous spot.
There was a long, deep silence. Mrs. Fitzpatrick was praying inwardly. Aveline still remained with her eyes uplifted, breathing short and quick.
All at once the stillness was broken by her voice repeating, in a distinct tone—
"'Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for thou art with me. Thy rod and thy staff comfort me.'"
Those who have watched by a sick person only can tell with what touching solemnity the words of Scripture will appear invested when coming suddenly from their lips in the stillness of night.
Mrs. Fitzpatrick's firmness gave way; she burst into tears. Aveline made no remark. She did not seem to notice her companions.
At last she said, in allusion to their conversation sometime ago.
"But nurse may come."