stantly during the
early hours, doing everything in their power to show their devoted
affection and make all things ready for the surgeons and their
assistants; her father and his wife also giving their aid and loving
sympathy, while Edward and Zoe attended to necessary arrangements
elsewhere, occasionally snatching a moment to stand beside the dear
sufferer and speak words of love and hope.

Rosie and Walter were allowed one short interview in which they were
clasped in her arms and a few loving, tender words spoken that both she
and they felt might be the last.

Captain Raymond came a little earlier than the doctor. Lester was
already there, and each young wife found the presence of her husband a
comfort and support while, in an adjoining room, they waited in almost
agonizing suspense to hear that the operation was over and what was the
result.

They were a silent group, every heart going up in strong crying to God,
that, if consistent with his holy will, the dear mother might be spared
to them.

And the united petition was granted; Mrs. Dinsmore presently came to
them, her face radiant with joy and hope. "It is over," she said;
"successfully over, and the doctors say that with the good nursing she
is sure to have she will soon be restored to perfect health."

The communication was received with tears of joy and thankfulness.

"It will be strange indeed if she lacks anything the most devoted nurses
can do for her," remarked Mr. Leland.

"I should think so, with three daughters, two sons, and as many
sons-in-law, to say nothing of father and mother," remarked Violet, with
a tearful smile. "Levis, you will spare me to her as long as I am
needed?"

"Certainly, my love," he replied, without a moment's hesitation; "there
is nothing we could refuse, or grudge to our beloved mother at this, or
indeed at any time."

"O grandma, may we go to her now?" queried Rose and Walter in a breath.

"I think not yet, dears; she must be kept very, very quiet," was the
gently spoken reply. "I know it would be a joy to both you and her to
meet and exchange a few words, but it might be a risk for her; and I
know you would far rather deny yourselves the gratification than do
anything to increase her suffering; to say nothing of endangering her
precious life."

"O grandma, neither of us would be willing to do that for the wealth of
the world!" exclaimed Rosie, with starting tears.

"No, indeed!" cried Walter. "It is very hard t