She almost ran against Philip, who did not perceive her, as he was awaiting her coming the other way round the corner of the house, and who turned upon her a face whose import she read in an instant.

'Philip!' was all she said, and then she fainted at his feet, coming down with a heavy bang on the round paving stones of the yard.
'Kester! Kester!' he cried, for she looked like one dead, and with all his strength the wearied man could not lift her and carry her into the house.
With Kester's help she was borne into the back-kitchen, and Kester rushed to the pump for some cold water to throw over her.
While Philip, kneeling at her head, was partly supporting her in his arms, and heedless of any sight or sound, the shadow of some one fell upon him.

He looked up and saw his aunt; the old dignified, sensible expression on her face, exactly like her former self, composed, strong, and calm.
'My lass,' said she, sitting down by Philip, and gently taking her out of his arms into her own.

'Lass, bear up! we mun bear up, and be agait on our way to him, he'll be needing us now.

Bear up, my lass! the Lord will give us strength.