I know her.
"Can you not come?
I won't ask it if your father needs you.

Only if he does not, I think you had better come very soon.
"When may I restore the red cross to the top of my letters to you?
I suppose I had better place it on the next letter, because if I do not you might think that another battle had gone against me.
"Don't reproach me.

I couldn't stand it just now.

Because I am a very tired girl, Duane, and what has happened is heavy in my heart--heavy on my head and shoulders like that monster Sindbad bore.
"Can you come and free me?
One word--your arms around me--and I am safe.
"G.S." As he finished, a maid came bearing a telegram on a salver.
"Tell him to wait," said Duane, tearing open the white night-message: "Your father is ill at San Antonio and wishes you to come at once.
Notify your mother but do not alarm her.

Your father's condition is favorable, but the outcome is uncertain.
"WELLS, _Secretary_." Duane took three telegram blanks from the note-paper rack and wrote: "My father is ill at San Antonio.