human
Why, mother, you are making a new frock! Where did you get it?
gpt
Aunt Sarah gave it to me, was the answer. There was silence for a few moments after this, while Mrs. Corner went on with her work of measuring off the black breadths.
human
I have something to tell you, little daughter, she then said.
gpt
You had a secret to tell me a little while ago, and now I have one to tell you. She paused.
human
It isn't a happy secret, Nan, she went on,
gpt
Don't bother about me, mother; I'll be as brave as a lion.
human
It is this, Nannie: that I must leave you for awhile.
gpt
Oh, mother, she cried,
human
I am going to the Adirondacks, Nannie.
gpt
The Adirondacks? Nan looked the surprise she felt.
human
Why in the world are you going there? You don't know any one up in those regions, do you?
gpt
No, and that makes it harder. I am going for my health, Nannie.
human
Oh, mother, mother, it doesn't mean--it can't mean----
gpt
It doesn't mean anything very serious--yet, said Mrs. Corner dropping her scissors and sitting down by Nan's side.
human
But the doctor says if I go now the tendency will probably be overcome. If I stay it may mean that the disease will get the better of me, and dear Aunt Sarah has made it possible for me to go. Only a few months, Nan, and Aunt Sarah will come and stay with you while I am away. Now, I want you to stand by Aunt Sarah. She has made, and will continue to make every sacrifice for your mother, and you must make sacrifices for her.
gpt
Oh, I will, cried Nan.
human
I won't touch the melodeon, and I won't nag the others any more than I can help. Aunt Sarah is good. Oh, I know she is so good, but she isn't--she isn't--you. This time the tears would have their way and they began to course down Nan's cheeks though she sat up straight and tried to blink them away.
gpt
And--and --she went on,
human
I know, but, dear, remember that persons are very likely to respond to what you expect of them, and you will find Aunt Sarah very sympathetic if you take her the right way.