“Oh, sir, that would not interfere with the faithful discharge of my duties as nurse. You had best let me go, and go at once, sir! There is no time to be lost, surely. Is any competent person with Miss Clifton now, sir?”
“No one but a colored woman, and I really must hurry back. And, so if you really do feel disposed to go, my dear girl,—is she a good nurse, Mrs. Clifton?”
“Excellent, sir! But indeed I do not like her exposing herself in my stead. I should not permit her to do it, indeed, if my power seconded my will,” added the lady, sinking back fatigued upon her sofa cushions.
Old Mr. Clifton was evidently inclined to accept Kate’s services. Mrs. Clifton was obliged to yield,—more to the weakness that overpowered her frame than to the arguments set forth by Catherine. It was settled, then, that Kate should go. And she quickly put on her little straw bonnet and black silk scarf, and entered the gig that the old gentleman borrowed from the lady to convey the girl to Clifton.
CHAPTER XIV.
THE DISCIPLINE OF AFFLICTION.
When through the deep waters I call thee to go
The rivers of wo shall not thee overflow,
For I will be with thee thy troubles to bless,
And sanctify to thee thy deepest distress.
When through fiery trials thy pathway shall lie,