if
there was one; that would be quite immaterial in its effect on the
issues. The thing that counts is to know if he were suffering from
acute mental torture. If this be so, then it probably accounts for
the seizure, and leaves him with a fair hope of recovery to a
limited extent. If, on the other hand, his mind was perfectly
placid and peaceful, then I am afraid you must expect the end in a
few days, or a week at the furthest, for that would mean that
nature is completely worn out, instead of just broken down by
worry."

Katherine was white to the lips, and her voice sank to a whisper as
she faltered: "Yes, he had acute anxiety, and a worry which wore
him all the more because he hid it so carefully; but none of the
others knew about it, only myself."

"Thank you! that sets matters on a more satisfactory basis," he
said, "and I feel sure we shall see improvement in a few days."

"Will you please not mind telling the others what you have told me
about the causes of his condition?" Katherine asked hurriedly.
"Miles and Phil are so young, while Mrs. Burton has had too many
troubles of her own. That was why Father talked more freely to me."

"There is no need to speak of it any more," he answered, with
reassuring kindness. "Now I want to know what arrangements we can
make about the sickroom. Do you think the boys can sleep in the
loft? Or, if that is too cold, shall we give them a shakedown here
in the store?"

"I don't think the loft will be cold now the frost has gone,"
Katherine answered. "But Mrs. Burton meant that for you, because
it is really the only quiet place we have."

"I am going to sit up with your father for the next few nights, but
I can get a nap in the loft during the day. When my feet are
better I shall have to be away in the boats a great deal, but until
then I can be nurse in chief, and so free Mrs. Burton's hands for
her other work," he said, gripping the needs of the situation as
plainly as if he had known them all for months instead of hours.

"I had meant to stay with Father to-night," said Katherine,
flushing a little, and not feeling quite certain whether she
entirely approved of having matters taken out of her hands in this
fashion.

"That would not do at all. You will have to be business head of
the establishment now for a permanency, and the sooner you get your
shoulders fitted to the burden the better," he said decidedly.

"But I have practically been the business head al