"Over wide and rushing rivers
In his arms he bore the maiden."
At noon General Valchester arrived. He had a brief, private interview with Dr. Leslie; then they telegraphed for a celebrated Richmond physician.
The brooding shadows of the death-angel's wing hung dark and heavy over Laurel Hill.
In the rainy, dreary sunset Charlie Meredith drove over in his buggy.
"I would have come sooner," he said, "but I have been to town to consult a lawyer for my niece. So when I got home and wife told me Lina had never got back, I thought I'd drive over and inquire after Mr. Valchester, and fetch her home if she'd a mind to go."
Mr. Earle, to whom he was talking, looked at him with a start of surprise.
"I am sorry to say that Mr. Valchester is in a very critical condition," he replied. "After his father came up at noon to-day he immediately telegraphed for a physician from Richmond."
"I am sorry to hear that," said Mr. Meredith. "Perhaps, then, my niece will not be ready to go home yet?"
And again Mr. Earle looked surprised.
"Miss Meredith went home at daylight this morning," he answered.