Mrs. Betty Norton, his half-sister, was scarcely less pained and anxious; as indeed were Maud's brothers and all the relatives in that region.
It was from her father Lucilla first heard of the accident—when she joined him on the veranda at Viamede directly after the departure of the doctors and Pete for Torriswood.
"Oh, father," she exclaimed, "I do hope he is not seriously injured! Poor Maud! She must be sorely distressed, for he has proved such a good, kind husband, and she almost idolizes him."
"Yes, I feel deeply for her as well as for him. We will pray for them both, asking that if it be consistent with the will of God, he may be speedily restored to perfect health and strength."
"Yes, papa; what a comfort it is that we may cast upon the Lord all our care for ourselves and others!"
"It is indeed! I have found it so in many a sore trial sent to myself or to some one dear to me. I am glad for Maud that she has her brothers with her now."
"I too, papa, and I suppose Chester will stay with her to-day."
"Most likely; and my daughter must not feel hurt should he not show himself here at his usual early hour, or even at all to-day."
"I'll try not, papa. I am sure it would be very selfish in me to grudge poor dear Maud any show of sympathy or any comfort she might receive from him—her own dear eldest brother."
"Yes, so I think," said her father, "and I should not expect it of any one of my daughters."