“She’s coming,” answered Patience as Mrs. Welcome came hurrying to the bedside.
She understood without a word, lifting Elsie in her arms, the frail little worn body against her heart. Tears streamed down her face; sobs shook her body.
Patience hurried weeping to summon Harry.
“Don’t cry, Mother,” moaned Elsie. “I am so glad I am home with you.”
“Yes, Elsie, yes.”
“I would have come long ago, but I didn’t dare—so many girls never dare go home. Some of their mothers don’t want them, but you—. Mother—”
“Yes my darling, yes!”
“I was afraid, so afraid. I went—and—looked—at the—lake.” She seemed to her mother to wander a bit.
Her breathing became difficult. No more words came. A few quick fluttering breaths—Elsie was gone.