"Cousin Jennie!"
"Yes, Madge," said the latter going toward her cousin with as much composure as if their conversation had been of the most common place.
"Cousin Jennie," said Marguerite raising herself with an air of determination, "I thank you for your harsh but wholesome words. They have given rise to a train of thoughts which I shall soon put to the test and you, my dear, must await the result."
"What now, coz? If it be anything that will relieve you from such disgraceful bonds, I will enter into it body and soul."
* * * * *
"Better to-day, dearest papa? I am so glad," and Marguerite rained kisses upon the emaciated cheeks.
"And cousin Jennie is here to congratulate you upon looking so well," Marguerite now motioned her cousin to the bedside.
"Uncle Stephen," said the girl taking the trembling hands between her own, "you must hurry and get well for I'm not going to leave here until you do."
Marguerite having supplanted the nurse for the entire afternoon and having taken the precaution to learn from the good old doctor that her cheerful presence would do good turned the occasion to the best possible account.
Side by side sat the two maidens in striking but happy contrast. Cousin Jennie's neatly fitting frock of wine-colored serge was relieved by point lace collar and cuffs, the work of her own deft fingers, while a cluster of white geranium served to complete the toilet and give a subdued tone to the highly brilliant complexion.