Her religion had leveled all needs and all aspirations.

What the day brought forth answered her.

She inspired me with a secret pity; for I knew she carried in her bosom the knowledge that she was an old maid.
Before mother left her room Veronica was taken ill, and was not convalescent till spring.

Delicacy of constitution the doctor called her disorder.

She had no strength, no appetite, and looked more elfish than ever.