Hadly walked over to the window and looked out with a grim expression, avoiding too close a contact with death.
As spirit communes with spirit, so Venna's presence brought back the consciousness of her father. He opened his eyes slowly and fastened them upon her with unutterable joy.
"My darling girl, you have come!" he murmured, making a weak effort to lift his hand.
She leaned gently over him and kissed his white lips.
"Yes, Daddy, I'm here, dear. I'm here to stay with you until you go home," she said quietly but with a voice full of love.
His eyes saddened.
"Until—I go—home, dearie? That will be soon, very soon. Be sure you stay."
His eyes closed again in sudden weakness.
Venna stared at him in horror.
"Daddy, daddy, you don't mean—Oh! speak to me. Daddy!" she cried piteously.