They were hurt to the heart, poor old ladies, and said they could
never forgive these injuries.
"Reform!"
They kept repeating that word resentfully. "Reform--and learn
to tell lies!"
Time slipped along, and in due course a change came over their spirits.
They had completed the human being's first duty--which is to think
about himself until he has exhausted the subject, then he is in a
condition to take up minor interests and think of other people.
This changes the complexion of his spirits--generally wholesomely.
The minds of the two old ladies reverted to their beloved niece
and the fearful disease which had smitten her; instantly they forgot
the hurts their self-love had received, and a passionate desire
rose in their hearts to go to the help of the sufferer and comfort
her with their love, and minister to her, and labor for her the best
they could with their weak hands, and joyfully and affectionately
wear out their poor old bodies in her dear service if only they might
have the privilege.
"And we shall have it!" said Hester, with the tears running
down her face. "There are no nurses comparable to us, for there
are no others that will stand their watch by that bed till they
drop and die, and God knows we would do that."
"Amen," said Hannah, smiling approval and endorsement through the
mist of moisture that blurred her glasses. "The doctor knows us,
and knows we will not disobey again; and he will call no others.
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