"
"I was older than Zoe is, it is true; but do not be dictatorial, Edward;
if you must rule, do it by love and persuasion; you will find it the
easiest and happiest way for you both."
"Yes, mother, I am convinced of it; but unfortunately for my poor little
wife, I have not my father's gentleness and easy temper. Will you come up
with me now and take a look at her? I fear she is not quite well--her
cheeks are so flushed and her hands so hot. I shall never forgive myself
if I have made her ill."
"I sincerely hope you are not to be visited with so severe a punishment as
that," his mother said. "But come, let us go to her at once."
They found her still sleeping, but not profoundly; her face was
unnaturally flushed, and wore a troubled expression, while her breathing
seemed labored.
As they stood anxiously regarding her, she woke with a sharp cry of
distress and anguish, then catching sight of her husband bending over her,
her face grew radiant, and throwing her arms about his neck, "O Ned, dear
Ned!" she cried, "are you here? and do you love me yet?"
"Dearly, dearly, my darling," he said, holding her close.
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