Alas! in the mirth and amusement of the evening Lily entirely forgot
the blister, until just as she went to bed, when she made one of her
feeble resolutions to take it, or send it early in the morning. She
only awoke just in time to be ready for breakfast, went downstairs
without one thought of the sick child, and never recollected her,
until at church, just before the Litany, she heard these words: 'The
prayers of the congregation are desired for Agnes Eden.'
She felt as if she had been shot, and scarcely knew where she was for
several moments. On coming out of church, she stood almost in a
dream, while Emily and Jane were talking to the Rector, who told them
how very ill the child was, and how little hope there was of her
recovery. He took leave of them, and Lily walked home, scarcely
hearing the soothing words with which Emily strove to comfort her.
The meaning passed away mournfully; Lily sat over the fire without
speaking, and without attempting to do anything. In the afternoon
rain came on; but Lily, too unhappy not to be restless, put on her
bonnet and cloak, and went out.
She walked quickly up the hill, and entered the field where the
cottage stood.
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