Yet, like Magnus, Mrs. Heritage was not sure of Marielle’s feelings towards the young doctor. The girl was so maidenly and modest, so free from conceit, that even if she really reciprocated his love, she would not show it until certain that she was indeed sought by him. Neither mother nor lover need have been uneasy, however, for circumstances were lending themselves to aid their dearest wish, and Marielle’s heart had been won during these long weeks of her mother’s illness. Magnus as an acquaintance or friend had always been charming, but Magnus in a sick-room was a revelation to Marielle. His quiet, yet withal bright and cheery, manner was the very perfection of what a medical man’s should be. It neither startled nor depressed his patients by being either boisterous or melancholy; and the gentle touch and tenderness with which from time to time he examined the paralysed limbs of Mrs. Heritage made Marielle glow with gratitude, and resolve that when a fitting opportunity presented itself she would not fail to thank Magnus for all his kindness. Somehow she had an inkling that a few words from herself would have more value in his eyes than the biggest fee she could offer him. At the thought of the doctor’s and other bills that would have to be paid, Marielle’s heart sank. It would be rather difficult to meet them all out of their slender income, and for a month past she had done nothing to earn money, owing to her mother’s illness. Now, however, it was no longer necessary for the nurse or anyone to sit up all night with the invalid, and Marielle decided to sleep in her mother’s room at night and let the nurse take the day duty. Accordingly she notified her pupils to the effect that she would be able to resume her teaching the following week, and prepared to work hard. Hence it came about that one day about a fortnight later Magnus Duncan, calling in to see Mrs. Heritage, who was promoted to a sofa for a while in the afternoon now, found her alone, Nurse Rigby having gone to prepare some little invalid delicacy, and Marielle being out. Mrs. Heritage, who was making rapid progress towards health, noticed the quick glance around that the young doctor gave, and answered it by remarking quietly: “Marielle is out.” Magnus reddened at having his thoughts read so easily, but met the glance bent on him by one as steady. Then he resolved to take her into his confidence, and went straight to the point. “I see you have guessed my secret,” he said. “Tell me, shall I have your consent if I win her?” Mrs. Heritage held out her hand, and replied, as Magnus clasped it with his own: “Yes, and my blessing too. There is no one I know to whom I would so gladly give my child.” “Bless you for that!” cried Magnus. “But do you think she cares for me?” “Ask her, and see,” said Marielle’s mother, smiling. “Remember she is not a girl to wear her heart on her sleeve.” “When can I see her?” asked Magnus.