"Yes Ned, she has."
Edward frowned slightly, but said nothing, for by that time, the doctor was hastening his sister away and his mother was gently calling him.
"Edward."
"Yes mother," and, entering her room, he threw himself carelessly into the seat which Louise had vacated.
For a few moments both were silent, and as the son looked into the mother's face, he plainly saw that she was filled with grief and anxiety; and his heart smote him for he really loved and revered his mother; but he resolved to appear as if he had observed nothing amiss, and, taking his hat to leave, he said quite cheerfully, "well mother what are your commands?"
"Edward I have a request to make of you," replied Mrs. Sherman with some feeling in her tone.
"Speak, mother dear," said he, falling pleasantly into his seat.
"It is my request, Edward, that you do not provide wine, or any other stimulant for our New Year's entertainment."
"What, not coffee, mother?" said Edward laughingly.
"You know very well what I mean," said Mrs. Sherman with a faint smile.