Gerty was pleased with everything, enjoyed everything, and seemed so bright and strong that both Asahel and Marion were encouraged, but Almira shook her head sadly.
"You had better send for your pa and ma if you want them to see her," she said to Marion, privately. "I'm much mistaken if you don't see a change to-night or to-morrow."
"But she seems so much stronger, Almira!"
"It is just the lighting up for death," said Almira. "I've seen it too many times to be mistaken."
The event proved that the experienced nurse was right.
Gerty lay on the sofa in the parlour all the afternoon, and took her tea there.
"Hadn't you better go back now?" said Almira.
"I suppose so," answered Gerty. She sat up, and even rose to her feet and stood for a minute or two looking wistfully about her.
"I wish you could carry me into the dining-room," said she. "Do you think you could without hurting yourself, Asahel?"
Asahel looked at Almira.