“At least, everything is the matter. It’s the only thing that matters! ... Oh, Herbert!”
She laughed and cried at the same time so that her son was alarmed and stared at her in amazement.
“You aren’t ill, are you?” he said. “Shall I send for a doctor?”
Mrs. Heywood shook her trembling old head.
“I’m quite well. I never felt so well.”
“You had better sit down, mother,” said Herbert.
He took her hand and led her to a chair.
“What’s up, eh, old lady? Mollie hasn’t run away, has she?”
The old lady took his hand and fondled it.
“Herbert, my son, I’ve wonderful news for you.”