wanted to get out.
I got up softly and went to feel and see if the paper did move, and
when I came back John was awake.
What is it, little girl? he said. Don t go walking about like
that you ll get cold.
I thought it was a good time to talk, so I told him that I really was
not gaining here, and that I wished he would take me away.
Why darling! said he, our lease will be up in three weeks, and I
can t see how to leave before.
The repairs are not done at home, and I cannot possibly leave town
just now. Of course if you were in any danger I could and would, but
you really are better, dear, whether you can see it or not. I am a
doctor, dear, and I know. You are gaining flesh and color, your
appetite is better. I feel really much easier about you.
I don t weigh a bit more, said I, nor as much; and my appetite may
be better in the evening, when you are here, but it is worse in the
morning when you are away.
Bless her little heart! said he with a big hug; she shall be as sick
as she pleases! But now let s improve the shining hours by going to
sleep, and talk about it in the morning!
And you won t go away? I asked gloomily.
Why, how can I, dear? It is only three weeks more and then we will
take a nice little trip of a few days while Jennie is getting the house
ready. Really, dear, you are better!
Better in body perhaps I began, and stopped short, for he sat up
straight and looked at me with such a stern, reproachful look that I
could not say another word.
My darling, said he, I beg of you, for my sake and for our child s
sake, as well as for your own, that you will never for one instant let
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