Armine knew there was no chance of an immediate and entire recovery
for him, and this was a severe stroke to Babie, who was quite
unprepared. And, as her face began to draw up with tears near the
surface, he hugged her close, and consolingly whispered that now they
would be together always, he should not have to go away from his own
dear Babie Bunting, and there was a little kissing match, ending by
Babie saying, disconsolately, "But you did like Eton so, and you were
going to get the Newcastle and the Prince Consort's prize, and to be
in the eleven and all—-and you were so sure of a high remove! Oh,
dear!" and she let her head drop on his shoulder, and was almost
crying again.
"Don't, don't, Babie! or you'll make me as bad again," said Armine.
"It does come over me now and then, and I wish I had never known what
it was to be strong and jolly, and to expect to do all sorts of
things."
"I shall always be wishing it," said Babie.
"No, you are not to cry! You would be more sorry if I was dead, and
not here at all, Babie; and you have got to thank God for that."
"I do-—I have! I've done it ever since we got Johnny's dreadful
letter. Oh, yes, Armine, I'll try not to mind, for perhaps if we
aren't thankful, I mayn't keep you at all," said poor Babie, with her
arms round her treasure.
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