"She will not return, John. This is what goes on day after day."
"It is very sad—I did not fully comprehend his condition."
"He is often far worse, and complains of his head or is resolutely—I should say obstinately—bent on some folly, such as walking to the mills and advising them. Aunt Ann never contradicts him—what he wants, she wants. Not the most reasonable opposition is of any use."
"Does he never ride, Leila?"
"Never, and is vexed when Dr. McGregor calls to see him and advises a consultation. Once we had a distressing outbreak."
"And yet," said John, "there should have been other advice long ago.
Somehow there must be."
"Mr. Rivers has urged it and made him angry; as for Aunt Ann, she sees only the bright side of his case and humours him as she would a sick child."
"She is greatly changed, Leila. I hardly know how to state it. She has a look of—well, of something spiritual in her face."
"Yes, that is true. Are you in pain, John?" she added.
"Yes—not in great pain, but enough. For two weeks I did suffer horribly."