She met Marion's sympathetic glance with an earnest gaze, as though she would read what manner of spirit she was of; then a beaming smile lighted her whole face, as she said softly,—
"You are very welcome, my dear."
"I felt then," said Marion afterwards to her aunt, "as though I could take her right into my heart of hearts." What she did at the moment to show what she felt was to bend over and press her lips to the pale cheek of the sufferer.
A few words of explanation as to her present visit,—of sorrow that it must be a hurried one,—and then Marion said,—
"I am sure you will not consider my question prompted by curiosity, if I ask, why are you here in this out-of-the-way part of the town?"
"Necessity compels it, my dear. I need perfect quiet."
"Would you prefer the city?"
"Greatly, in many respects, if I were well."
"You could have a physician near you there."
"No physician can avail me now,—at least such is my belief."