CHAPTER XXI.
THE LAST.
Aunt Pike grew slowly and gradually stronger, and in time was able to be dressed, and could sit up in her chair.

But she knew, and the doctors knew, that she would never again be the same strong, active woman that she was before.

The doctors had hopes that in time she would be able to walk again, and take up some of her old ways and duties; but she herself was not so hopeful, and with the prospect before her of a long spell of invalidism, she insisted on leaving Dr.Trenire's home for one of her own.
The doctor and all protested warmly, but Aunt Pike was determined.
"Kitty can look after the house now better than she could," she said, "and I shall be glad of the rest and quiet.

I shall not leave Gorlay.
I want to be near you all, so that if Kitty wants any advice I shall be at hand to give it." So, seeing that her heart was set upon it, and feeling that the quieter, less busy home would be better for her, Dr.Trenire gave in, and they all set to work to find a house to suit her.

But here they found a task which taxed all their time and patience.