"Don't decide so hastily," replied Dr. Heathfield, taking a seat by her side.
"A thing which is impossible, requires no consideration."
"But I am convinced that it is not impossible," he urged, "and by obliging others, you will also benefit yourself; it is such a very small thing that is required of you, just to accompany the children to D—— for a few weeks. Indeed I think that you can scarcely refuse after all the kindness that you have received during your long illness."
"I am extremely sorry to have caused so much trouble, but I assure you that I am not ungrateful."
"It don't seem like it when you won't do what little you might to please," returned the doctor.
"Don't say will not," Dr. Heathfield.
"Ay but I must say will not, and excuse me when I add, that you greatly mistake your duty to give way to this apathy, and thus retard your recovery," he said kindly. "I do not seek to fathom your trouble, but I do know that it was excessive mental anguish that caused you to break a blood-vessel, and I would remind you that this is not the right way to brood over and nurse your grief, refusing to make any effort to do your duty.
"I know it is wrong
faltered Isabel with quivering lips,
but I cannot take an interest in anything or find comfort, save in the thought of early death."