Mrs.Merton was very uneasy.
"It is the more unlucky, Caroline," added the mother, turning to Miss Merton, "because to-morrow, you know, we were to have spent a few days at Knaresdean to see the races.

If poor Sophy does not get better, I fear you and Miss Cameron must go without me.

I can send to Mrs.Hare to be your chaperon; she would be delighted." "Poor Sophy!" said Caroline; "I am very sorry to hear she is unwell; but I think Taylor would take great care of her; you surely need not stay, unless she is much worse." Mrs.Merton, who, tame as she seemed, was a fond and attentive mother, shook her head and said nothing; but Sophy was much worse before noon.
The doctor was sent for, and pronounced it to be the scarlet fever.
It was now necessary to guard against the infection.

Caroline had had the complaint, and she willingly shared in her mother's watch of love for two or three hours.

Mrs.Merton gave up the party.