'I did not mean to be unkind to him,' said Averil, in a low subdued
voice; 'he was very good to me last night. Only--this is peace--
this,' pointing to her instrument, 'is such a soothing friend. And
surely this is the place to wait in!'

'The place to wait in indeed, my poor child, if you are not
increasing the distress of others by staying here. Besides, you must
not exhaust yourself, or how are you to go and cheer Leonard!'

'Oh! there is no fear but that I shall go to-morrow,' said Averil; 'I
mean to do it!' the last words being spoken in a resolute tone,
unlike the weariness of her former replies.

And with this purpose before her, she consented to be taken back by
Mary to rest on the sofa, and even to try to eat and drink. Her
brother and sister hung over her, and waited on her with a tender
assiduous attention that showed how they had missed her all day; and
she received their kindness gratefully, as far as her broken wearied
state permitted.

Several inquiries had come throughout the day from the neighbours;
and while Mary was still with Ave, a message was brought in to ask
whether Miss Ward would like to see Mrs. Pugh.

'Oh no, no, thank her, but indeed I cannot,' said Averil, shivering
uncontrollably as she lay.

Mary felt herself blushing, in the wonder what would be kindest to
do, and her dread of seeing Henry's face. She was sure that he too
shrank, and she ventured to ask, 'Shall I go and speak to her?'