recognized the tall form of Baring in an Inverness cape. As he drew near he said in a low voice—
"Is she easier now?"
"She is asleep."
"Does the doctor return to-night?"
"Not unless he is sent for."
"There should be a nurse. I must send for one."
"It is not necessary; I am going to sit up with her."
"Again? I cannot allow it," he said, almost gruffly. "You will be falling ill next."
"Oh, I am very strong! I have not been up with her for some nights. Please don't send for a nurse. She would so much rather have me."
"Yes; she would rather have you, but———" He broke off; then, a moment later, "After to-night, there must be a trained nurse. I cannot have it said that I allowed you to sacrifice yourself to Hatty. God knows how long this may last!"
"Not very long," she whispered. Then, feeling the tears rising in her eyes, she turned from him, entered the house, and closed the door softly behind her.
When Elizabeth entered Hatty's room, she was still asleep, and remained so for some hours. Alaric came to the door, and a few whispered words passed between him and Elizabeth. He would not go to bed; he would lie down, dressed as he was, that he might be ready to fetch the doctor, in case he should be called in the night. Otherwise he would not return to his sister's room; it was better that she should be left undisturbed. Elizabeth put on her dressing-gown, drew an armchair close to Hatty's
