"She has received a heavy blow, Rose, but I think—I hope it will turn out for her good in the end," he said low and tremulously, as he laid her down.
She seemed in a half-fainting condition, and Edward rushed away in search of restoratives.
Rose asked no more questions at the time, nor did her husband give any further information, but in silence, broken only now and then by a subdued whisper, they both devoted their energies to Elsie's restoration.
"Shall I go for a doctor?" asked Edward.
"No, thank you. I think she will be better presently," answered Mr.
Dinsmore.
"I am better now," murmured Elsie feebly. "Papa, if you will help me up to bed, I shall do very well."
"Can't you eat something first?" asked Rose, "I have a nice little supper set out in the next room for papa and you."
Elsie shook her head, and sighed, "I don't think I could, mamma; I am not at all hungry."
"I want you to try, though," said her father; "it is some hours now since you tasted food, and I think you need it," and lifting her tenderly in his arms he carried her into the supper-room, where he seated her at the table in an easy-chair which Edward hastily wheeled up for her use.
To please her father she made a determined effort, and succeeded in swallowing a few mouthfuls. After that he helped her to her room and left her in the care of Rose and Chloe.