“There is nothing the matter with you, is there, Aunt Virginia?” he questioned anxiously. “You're not sick, are you?”
“Oh, no, dear—were you alarmed?” Virginia asked.
“Well, yes, I was!” he answered. “You see I couldn't make out why you should send for me.”
“Sit down, Stephen. I have heard from Dr. Stillman. Sam brought me the letter two hours ago.” Her manner was very gentle, and the boy saw that her eyes were red as with weeping.
“Is there anything the matter with my mother?” he asked quickly.
“Yes, dear,” said Virginia softly.
“She's sick?”
“Yes, she has been very ill, Stephen.”
He looked up into her face.
“You mean—” he began, with strange hesitancy.