Rose broke the news gently to Aunt Plenty and set herself to the task of keeping up the old lady's spirits, for, being helpless, the good soul felt as if everything would go wrong without her.

At dusk she fell asleep, and Rose went down to order lights and fire in the parlor, with tea ready to serve at any moment, for she felt sure some of the men would come and that a cheerful greeting and creature comforts would suit them better than tears, darkness, and desolation.
Presently Mac arrived, saying the instant he entered the room: "More comfortable, Cousin." "Thank heaven!" cried Rose, unclasping her hands.

Then seeing how worn out, wet, and weary Mac looked as he came into the light, she added in a tone that was a cordial in itself, "Poor boy, how tired you are! Come here, and let me make you comfortable." "I was going home to freshen up a bit, for I must be back in an hour.
Mother took my place, so I could be spared, and came off, as Uncle refused to stir." "Don't go home, for if Aunty isn't there it will be very dismal.

Step into Uncle's room and refresh, then come back and I'll give you your tea.

Let me, let me! I can't help in any other way, and I must do something, this waiting is so dreadful." Her last words betrayed how much suspense was trying her, and Mac yielded at once, glad to comfort and be comforted.