"But I am convinced that it is not impossible," he urged, "and by obliging others, you will also benefit yourself; it is such a very small thing that is required of you, just to accompany the children to D---- for a few weeks. Indeed I think that you can scarcely refuse after all the kindness that you have received during your long illness." "I am extremely sorry to have caused so much trouble, but I assure you that I am not ungrateful." "It don't seem like it when you won't do what little you might to please," returned the doctor. "Don't say will not," Dr. Heathfield. "Ay but I must say will not, and excuse me when I add, that you greatly mistake your duty to give way to this apathy, and thus retard your recovery," he said kindly. "I do not seek to fathom your trouble, but I do know that it was excessive mental anguish that caused you to break a blood-vessel, and I would remind you that this is not the right way to brood over and nurse your grief, refusing to make any effort to do your duty. "I know it is wrong faltered Isabel with quivering lips, but I cannot take an interest in anything or find comfort, save in the thought of early death." "But that is from the morbid state of mind induced by weakness." Isabel shook her head. "And will pass off as you get stronger," he continued. "I shall never be strong again," she said. "Pooh, nonsense, I can't have you talk in that way, if you only make an effort and go with the children to D----, I think you will soon alter your opinion." "Please don't say any more, my head aches dreadfully," pleaded Isabel. "One moment and I have done," he said, "I fear that you forget your position here, the family have behaved to you with the greatest generosity, but still you must be aware that they would not continue to keep an invalid governess, and as I understand that you are entirely dependant upon your own exertions, you must see the necessity of trying the benefit of sea air, when you have the opportunity, do not take it unkindly that I have used such freedom in pressing this matter, think over it quietly, and to-morrow let me know what answer I am to give Mrs. Arlington." Then he took his leave, and his kind heart smote him, for he heard the smothered sobs of his fair patient. CHAPTER X.