Elizabeth stood silent and still.
"Shall I — would you like to have me read for you?" she asked somewhat timidly.
"No," said Karen — "not now — I couldn't hear. Read for yourself, Miss Lizzie. I wish the Governor was here."
What a throbbing wish to the same effect was in Elizabeth's heart! She stood, silent, sorrowful, dismayed, watching Karen, wondering at herself in her changed circumstances and life and occupation; and wondering if she were only going down into the valley of humiliation, or if she had got to the bottom. And, almost thinking Karen to be envied if she were, as she said, 'going.'
"What's the matter?" said Rose and her night-cap at the other door.
"Karen don't feel very well. Don't come here, Rose."
"What are you there for?"
"I want to be here. You go to bed and keep quiet — I'll tell you another time."
"Is she sick?"
"Yes — I don't know — Go in, Rose, and be quiet!"