She warmed to life slightly, and the tears seeped through her closed eyes, and she felt of his supporting arm down the length of his sleeve.
"Joe! Essie, that you?"
"Ma darlin', we're all here."
"Don't cry, little lady. See, she's coming out of it all right. Here, gimme a lift, Jimmie. See there! She's got her breath all right again."
They laid her back on the pillow, and she folded her hands lightly, ever so lightly, like lilies, one atop the other.
"Children! Children, I'm ready."
"Ready for what, ma? Some more black medicine?"
"Just ready, Jimmie, my boy! Here, Joe; hold my hand. It's like his was, children—big and strong."
"Aw, ma! Come on! Perk up!"
"I am, Jimmie, my boy."