In this new cause for dread she was
compelled in some degree to forget herself. She saw the intense
solicitude of her father and mother, who had been so readily
accessory to Martine's expedition; she also saw that his mother's
heart was almost breaking under the strain of anxiety. His
incoherent words were not needed to reveal that his effort had
been prompted by his love. She was one of his watchers, patiently
enduring the expressions of regret which the mother in her sharp
agony could not repress. Nichol's last letter was now known by
heart, its every word felt to be prophetic. She had indeed been
called upon to exercise courage and fortitude greater than he
could manifest even in the Wilderness battle. Although she often
faltered, she did not fail in carrying out his instructions. When
at last Martine, a pallid convalescent, could sit in the shade on
the piazza, she looked older by years, having, besides, the
expression seen in the eyes of some women who have suffered much,
and can still suffer much more. In the matter relating to their
deepest consciousness, no words had passed between them.
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