He opened his eyes at that, and met the look of the doctor fixed on him.
“Oh, is the end come?” he asked. “I didna think it would be so soon. Did I hear Effie’s voice? I have so much to say to her! My poor bairns!”
Effie bent her face again close to his. Her voice was low, but firm and clear.
“Father, don’t let any thought of us disturb you now. God is good. I am not afraid.”
“And your aunt, she has suffered much, sacrificed much for us. Consider her first in all things. Be guided by her.”
“Yes, father.”
“There are other things. I didna think this was to be so soon; and now it is too late. But you have some kind friends. Did I hear John Nesbitt’s voice?”
“Yes, father; he is here.” And she beckoned to John to come nearer. But he seemed to have forgotten him John stooped towards him, and said, in a low voice:
“Is there anything I can say that would make it easier for you to leave them?”
The eyes of the dying man turned towards him, slowly.