mother was to die had taken deep hold of my mind.

I visited my mother the next evening, and, to avoid surprising her by
suddenly returning home, I informed her that I intended spending a few
weeks at home, as I needed rest from teaching, and that Laura would
attend to the children during the time I should remain at home. My
mother seemed so cheerful that evening that I began to hope that I might
have been too much alarmed; but, when I had opportunity for speaking
privately with Aunt Patience, her words confirmed my worst fears. She
informed me that at her earnest solicitation my mother had that day
summoned a physician; that he had prescribed some medicine for her, and
given her some advice in regard to diet, walking or riding in the open
air, &c. She further informed me that she had herself spoken privately
to the physician, requesting him to tell her candidly what he thought of
my mother's case. He replied,--

"As you have asked me a plain question, I think it my duty to give you a
candid answer. I know not," continued the physician, "how it might have
been had I been called six months ago, but now I fear the case of Mrs.
Roscom is beyond the reach of medicine. I will gladly do my utmost for
her, but I fear that a few months, it may be a few weeks, will terminate
her life."

This was _fearful_ tidings to me, as I had strongly hoped that the
opinion of the physician would have been more favorable. When I became
outwardly composed, I rejoined my mother, in company with Aunt Patience.
My mother was not aware that Aunt Patience had held any conversation
with the physician regarding her illness. She seemed much pleased at the
prospect of my return home. I informed her, before leaving, that she
might expect my return in the course of two or three days.

She failed rapidly from this time; and, shortly after I returned to my
home, was obliged to give up all employment, however light. We often
reminded her of the physician's wish, that she should walk in the open
air; but it was seldom she felt equal to the task of walking even a
short distance.

Mrs. Leighton and Laura often called, and brought many little
delicacies to tempt the appetite of my invalid mother. Mrs. Leighton
told my mother that she would be happy to send her carriage as often as
she felt strong to ride out. My mother replied that on fine days she
would gladly avail herself of her kind offer; and, so as long as my
mother was able, the carriage was sent e