"No--a little weak, that is all. Don't go up to see her; I have just left her, and she will think there is something the matter, when there's nothing that cannot be set right in a few days. She wants tone, that is all, and rest, and perfect freedom from excitement. That is essential. Such a day as this, flattering and pleasant as it must have been, is not good for her. Keep her mind at rest, let her hear nothing to disturb her, speak of none but cheerful subjects to her, and she will be herself again in a week. Follow my advice, and there is not the least cause for anxiety." CHAPTER XXXIV. RUTH'S SECRET. Dr. Roberts' hearty and confident tone carried conviction with it. Aaron's anxiety was dispelled; easier in his mind respecting Rachel's health, he felt like a man reprieved. A few days were still left for reflection, and he went forth to his public duties with a sense of great relief. Rose, meanwhile, was busy for some time attending to Rachel, who wished the young girl to remain with her till she was asleep. With Ruth's letter in her pocket, which had been delivered almost clandestinely at the house, and which she was enjoined to read when she was alone, she was compelled to bridle her impatience. She did not dare to speak of it to Rachel, and the course the conversation took in the bedroom did not tend to compose her. Rachel spoke only of family matters--of her husband and her children--in which category she included Rose. Presently the conversation drifted entirely to the subject of Ruth. "Young girls," said Rachel, "confide in each other. There is a true affection between you, is there not, my dear?" "Yes," replied Rose, wondering what was coming, and dreading it. "It happens sometimes," continued Rachel, with a sigh, "that parents do not entirely win their children's confidence. Joseph has not a secret from me. He is happy. Do you think Ruth is quite happy, my dear?" "I think so," said Rose. "I am not asking you to break a confidence she may have reposed in you." Rose could not refrain from interrupting her. "But, dear mother, I know nothing." As she uttered the words a guilty feeling stole over her. What did the letter in her pocket contain? Rachel drew the girl's face to hers, and caressed her. "Now it is you," she said, "who are speaking as if you are in trouble. I am very inconsiderate, but love has its pains as well as its joys. You have no trouble, Rose?" "None, dear mother. I am perfectly happy." "See how mistaken I am; and I hope I am mistaken also about Ruth. I feared that she had a secret which she was concealing from me. Blind people are suspicious, Rose, and breed trouble for themselves and others." "Not you, dear mother," said Rose, kissing her. "Now you must go to sleep. This is quite against the doctor's orders." Rachel smiled and yielded; she took pleasure in being led by those she loved. In the solitude of her chamber Rose read the letter: