There was something in her face which made Helen's heart stand still.
She could not wait for her to reach the door, but went out bareheaded to meet her.
Lois took her hands between her own, which were trembling.

"Gifford has sent a dispatch.

I--I came to bring it to you, Helen." Her cousin put out her hand for the telegram.
"I'm afraid John is ill," Lois said, the quick tears springing to her eyes.
"Give it to me," said Helen.
Reluctantly Lois gave her the dispatch, but she scarcely looked at it.
"Uncle Henry," she said, for Mr.Dale had followed her, and stood in speechless sympathy, his white hair blowing about in the keen wind, "I will go to Mercer now.

I can make the train.

Will you let me have your carriage ?" Her voice was so firm and her manner so calm Lois was deceived.