Graydon made even Dr. Sommers's ruddy cheek grow pale by his brief
narrative, adding, "Perhaps her nerves have received a severer shock
than she yet understands. I wish you would tell Mrs. Muir the story,
making as light of it as you can, and with her aid you can insure that
Miss Alden obtains the rest and tonics she needs. You can also meet
and quiet the rumors that may be flying about, and you know that Miss
Alden has a strong aversion to being talked to or of about personal
affairs."
In youth, health, and sleep Madge found the best restoratives, and the
morning saw her little the worse for the experiences of the previous
day. The hours passed quickly in preparations for departure and in
a call on Mr. and Mrs. Wendall, who gave evidence that they were
becoming more resigned.
"I am at work again," said the farmer, "and so is Nancy. There's
nothing else for us to do but plod toward home, where Tilly is."
Regret was more general and sincere than is usual when the transient
associations of a resort are broken. Dr. Sommers's visage could not
lengthen literally, and yet it approached as nearly to a funereal
aspect as was possible. He brightened up, however, when Madge slipped
something into his hand "for the chapel.
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