Liddell's entry she had perhaps better take her away
upstairs at once, but while she thought she sprang to her and locked her
in a close, silent embrace.
Turning from her, he saw that Mr. Liddell's eyes were open and fixed
upon them, and she said, softly: "I am sorry you have been disturbed. I
shall take my mother to my room; perhaps if you want anything you will
ring for me."
"I will," he returned; and Mrs. Liddell thought his tone a little less
harsh than usual. "I said you might come and see your daughter when you
like," he added, "and I repeat it. You have brought her up more usefully
than I expected." Having spoken, he leaned his head back wearily and
closed his eyes.
"I am pleased to hear you say so," returned Mrs. Liddell, quietly, and
immediately followed her daughter out of the room.
"Oh, darling mother, I am so delighted to have you here all to myself!
It is even better than going home," cried Kate, when they were safe in
her own special chamber. "But you are looking pale and worn and
thin--_so_ much thinner!"
"That is an improvement, Katherine," returned Mrs. Liddell; "I shall
look all the younger."
"Ah! but your face looks older, dear. What has been worrying you? Has
Ada--"
"Ada has never worried me, as you know, Katie," interrupted Mrs.
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