"I could have borne any trouble better than this," she answered, pressing her hands together.
"It will be softened to you, I am sure, Ellen. I am ever praying that it may."
"But----"
Visitors in the drawing-room: Mrs. Bede Greatorex and Miss Joliffe. A servant came to announce them. She had said that her mistress was at home, and Ellen had to go up. Hamish, with his remaining strength, lifted Miss Nelly on his knee, doll and all.
"Hush, papa, please! Baby is fatigued with making her toilette. She wants to go to sleep."
"What would Nelly say if papa told her he also wanted to go to sleep?"
Miss Nelly lay back in papa's arms while she considered the question, the doll hushed in hers. Ah me, it is ever thus! We clasp and love our children: they love others, who are more to them than we are.
"Why? Are you tired, papa?"
"A little weary, dear."
"Then go to sleep. Doll shall be quiet."