James Nixon Cross, Once a Week (1860)
“ We stood passive. For although we knew the irruption of an urgent visitor was a matter of serious apprehension, we were aware that the duration of the poor lady’s existence could at worst be affected by but a few hours, and we met the glance of Marie with a silent assent. The “little cabbage” disappeared, and in a few moments returned, ushering in a tall man, far gone in years, whose demeanour stamped him as belonging to the higher ranks of society. ”
James Nixon Cross, Once a Week (1860)
“ She had a hard struggle with the world, poor lady, but she held her ground until about six months since, when she was put hors de combat, the doctors say, with consumption, and is following her husband at the quick step. Mademoiselle Marie is eighteen, and is a good girl, oh! a brave girl. She has stepped into the gap left by her prostrate mother, and monsieur le propriétaire is very forbearing; but I fear the poor child is nearly beaten in the double struggle with her heart and body. For you must know, monsieur, that Marie has a little affair. ”
James Nixon Cross, Once a Week (1860)
“ Her hair would be stronger than ever, before her mother would be able to walk out with her. The poor lady seemed exhausted by recent exertion; but in a short time she rallied, and murmured,—“I feel it is too late, my darling; may heaven repay your devotion!” Marie looked at us inquiringly. We took the sick woman’s hand, and felt that the pulse beat feebly. Her mind began to wander in a light and unconnected manner, and her eyes were growing dull, and dallying with vacuity. We saw that the patient was suffering from the reaction of her late excitement ”
