124 The Story of the Hamiltons.

front door, and the snow was falling heavily.
As the carriage stopped, Mr. Hamilton came
out and lifted first one daughter, and then the
other, from the carriage into the bright, warm
hall, and assisted them in taking off their
cloaks.
 Grace found words impossible; but Edith
had not an idea of the extent of the trouble
they were plunged in.
 What is the matter with Herbert, papa ?
I hope his cold is not much worse," said she.
 "I cannot tell you, my darling, what ails
him," sorrowfully replied Mr. Hamilton; and
Edith's queries were at once checked by look-
ing into his grave face. "Come in and have
some tea, and warm yourselves, while I fetch
mamma."
 Mrs. Hamilton soon made her appearance.
She looked worn with anxiety, but she spoke
cheerfully to the children; and, after a few
minutes, Grace felt greatly relieved by her
mamma's manner, and almost ashamed of
having had such dreadful thoughts.
 Then, Mamma, Doctor Baring thinks he
will soon be better ?"
 He did not say that exactly, Grace. Doc-
tors never tell one all they really think;
but he did say there was a slight improve-