The suffering girl was showing signs of returning consciousness. Then a quick step was heard in the entry. She started up and cried out:
"Willie is come! Thank God!" and sank back, almost lifeless.
William Bland, for truly it was so, rushed forward and dropped on his knees beside the bed, saying:
"How is this? Why have you not answered my letters? Doctor, save her!"
Advancing, the doctor raised her head gently and gave her a little wine, saying:
"Speak to her, reassure her; that is all she needs now."
"Listen, Mary love, dear wife, and mother!" he whispered, in astonishment, as Valeria held before him the little sleeping babe, while a flush of paternal pride passed over his fine face. "There is no more need of silence; I am free and proud to claim you, darling. Uncle knows all, and bids me bring you to him. He was very ill. I nursed him and his life was spared. The fatigue, and more than all the worry of mind about you, brought on a severe nervous fever. I have been very ill. Julia knew it. Did you not hear? In my ravings I told all. Uncle has changed much since his recovery. He is no longer ambitious, except for my happiness, and is now waiting to welcome you."
The wonderful medicine had been administered, and already the happy effects were apparent.
With her hand clasped in her husband's she was slumbering peacefully, while a smile of sweet content lingered on the pale face.
The doctor soon bade adieu, saying: