She must have had some
heavy sorrows for years to have reduced her to her present state of
nervousness, nearly amounting to insanity, but not quite. This may yet
be warded off with great care, total freedom from all excitement, and
change of air and scene. She has heart complaint of an alarming nature.
This can never be cured; but if her strength can be restored, she may
live for years--her natural life, in short--or she may be taken at any
moment. Any sudden shock would probably be fatal.'
Rowland had not told Mr Wenlock that Netta was his sister. When he heard
his opinion, so clearly and unreservedly expressed, he was greatly
distressed.
'She will not be moved from these lodgings,' he said. 'She positively
refuses. Will it do to oblige her to leave?'
'By no means. But I hear that admirable young woman, whom I call _our_
Sister of Charity, Miss Gladys, has undertaken to nurse her. If any one
can persuade her to submit to go elsewhere she will do it. It should be
into the country. To her native air, if possible.'
Just at this juncture, Gladys returned, and Rowland called her into the
consultation. Mr Wenlock continued,--
'Lead her to think of her child, who is also in a most delicate state.
Tell her, that change of air, country air, is absolutely necessary for
her--which it really is--but she must not be taken from her mother.
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