However, I think we will
bring her round all right in a little while."
"Indeed, she is an honest girl, doctor, although appearances are
against her now," said the mother. "Her husband left her before she
was taken ill, to remain a short time with his sick uncle. Mr. Bland
was fearful of offending his aged relative, and so kept his marriage
concealed. She had a few letters when he first left, but, for near two
months, not a word have we heard. I fear he is ill. She has grown
dreadfully depressed since the birth of her babe. The suspicion
resting on her is killing her."
The suffering girl was showing signs of returning consciousness. Then
a quick step was heard in the entry. She started up and cried out:
"Willie is come! Thank God!" and sank back, almost lifeless.
William Bland, for truly it was so, rushed forward and dropped on his
knees beside the bed, saying:
"How is this? Why have you not answered my letters? Doctor, save her!"
Advancing, the doctor raised her head gently and gave her a little
wine, saying:
"Speak to her, reassure her; that is all she needs now."
"Listen, Mary love, dear wife, and mother!" he whispered, in
astonishment, as Valeria held before him the little sleeping babe,
while a flush of paternal pride passed over his fine face.
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