He returned in about half an hour, and his grave countenance convinced Leonard that his worst anticipations were correct.

He therefore forbore to question him, and they walked towards Cripplegate in silence.
On emerging into the fields, Hodges observed to his companion, "It is strange that I who daily witness such dreadful suffering should be pained by the gradual and easy decline of Amabel.

But so it is.

Her case touches me more than the worst I have seen of the plague." "I can easily account for the feeling," groaned Leonard.
"I am happy to say I have prevailed on her, if she does not improve in a short time,--and there is not the slightest chance of it,--to try the effect of a removal to the country.

Her father also consents to the plan." "I am glad to hear it," replied Leonard.