She rested her head against Louise:

“Louise!”

“What is it, Frances?”

“I haven’t been nice to you.... I’m going to die.”

“No, no, you’re not.”

“Yes, I am.... Huigje! Ottelientje! Mamma’s going to die.”

Otto took the children out of the room.

“Leave them with me!” she moaned. “I’m dying!...”

“No, Frances. But won’t you lie down a little? Take off your things? Lie down on your bed?”

“No ... no ... I’m a little better.... I must go down....”