Disease had crept in by stealth and was only too truly realized by the deep ravages thus made--by the wasted and emaciated form--the feverish cheek and sunken eye.
The noble sympathetic nature of the dutiful wife felt a severe shock as she daily was brought face to face with the dreaded fact--the awakening reality of her husband's condition.

Every care that could be bestowed by the hand of woman was lavished upon Gerald Bereford with unceasing and untiring devotion.

No duty was too troublesome, no wish was slighted, except that which urged her ladyship to be more attentive to her personal wants.

Every sacrifice must be made that can possibly give returning health and strength to the future lord of Bereford Castle.

No bitter repinings now possessed the heroic woman.