"All I have I would leave to you."
"But, my dear madam, I have no claim on this generosity--"
Mrs. Pryor now displayed such agitation that it was Caroline who had to become comforter.
The sequel to this scene appeared when Caroline sank into so weak a state that constant nursing was needed, and Mrs. Pryor established herself at the rectory.
One day, when the watchful nurse could not forbear to weep--her full heart overflowing--her patient asked:
"Do you think I shall not get better? I do not feel very ill--only weak."
"But your mind, Caroline; your mind is crushed; your heart is broken; you have been left so desolate."
"I sometimes think if an abundant gush of happiness came on me, I could revive yet."
"You love me, Caroline?"
"Inexpressibly. I sometimes feel as if I could almost grow to your heart."