"Not any better today? I expected decided improvement." Going to the couch, he took her hand gently and held it up for inspection. "A nice shadow of a hand, is it not, Mr. Hester?" he asked, smiling. "A hand that was once plump and fair," replied Howard, trying to be jocular. "I'm just telling Edith she must go away and live in fresh air and sunshine. What say you?" "Yes," replied Cadman grimly; "But she needs something more than fresh air and sunshine." "She has but to ask, and it is hers," said Howard; his spirits rising at the possibility of an unpleasant situation being removed. "That is a greater privilege than most possess," returned George quietly. Then he turned brightly to Edith. "And what would our little patient like most?" The violet eyes grew sadly thoughtful. "I'm not sure that I desire anything, only to be left alone--to die or live, as God sees best. I would like to please Howard and go away,--but I couldn't--O! I couldn't bear the awful lonesomeness of a strange, big place!" She spoke like a frightened child, and a quick sob was controlled with effort. George's heart was beating wildly. He longed to take her in his arms to comfort her. He dared not show his excess of feeling. Glancing at Howard, he saw an impatient frown darken his handsome features. "Edith is so indifferent to her health. I don't see what we can do," remarked Howard coldly. "Yes, I understand," Cadman replied evenly. Then he turned to Edith again, and she read in his eyes the same wonderful expression that had thrilled her before. Never did he drop his gaze, and he looked untold sympathy. "I understand. I have known just how this would be. You must go away, but you shall not be lonesome, I have your two best friends going with you." "I don't understand," said Edith, with a show of interest. "Of course not," he said, smiling. "Betty Emmit arrived in New York yesterday and telephoned me. I called upon her, and found her,--not sick, but tired out. I think she needs a change. I then called on the Mission President--by the way, a fine man,--and proposed that Betty accompany you to the mountains for a week or two--mutual benefit affair! Then I've spoken to Alma, and she is going too. How about that?" Edith's eyes brightened with pleasure and gratitude. "It seems too good to be true," she said happily. You are so thoughtful, George. "You see, we professional men know the needs of our patients beforehand," George replied, smiling gravely, "You will go?" "O, yes,--with Alma and Betty, and I'll try very hard to become well again quickly." George arose hastily. It was hard enough for him to conceal his feeling ordinarily, but he could hardly stand the present situation. "I am rushed today, so I cannot linger," he said. "There is nothing I can do for Mrs. Hester at present," he added turning to Howard. "Mrs. Lambert will call today, and make all arrangements. The sooner she goes, the better."