"Some trouble with that high-headed husband of hers; I always mistrusted him," was Mrs. Hull's mental conclusion, as she nodded assent to what Morris had said, asking if he proposed taking the early morning train which passed at four o'clock, and who did he expect would drive his cutter back, as the boys would not be home before broad daylight.
Here was a dilemma of which Morris had not thought, but Mrs. Hull's woman's wits came to his aid, suggesting that he "leave his horse at the tavern in West Silverton and she would send John after it as soon as he returned."
This arranged, Mrs. Hull next asked if Katy would not have some supper before her long ride.
"A cup of tea and a slice of toast was all she would require," Morris said, and he felt many doubts about her touching that.
She was sleeping when he returned to her, but when the tea was ready, she roused up enough to say she did not want it.
"Make her drink it if you ever expect to get her to New York," Mrs. Hull suggested, alarmed at the redness of Katy's face, and the brightness of her eyes.
"You must drink it," Morris said. "It will make you stronger for the ride. We are going very soon, you know--going to New York," and he shook her shoulder gently as he tried to make her comprehend.
When he said she must, Katy lifted up her head, doing whatever he bade her do, and seeming more natural for the exertion and the food she took.
"Let me rest now for a little while," she said, and lying back upon her pillow she slept for an hour, while Morris knelt beside her, counting her rapid pulse, marking the progress of the fever and praying earnestly that she might be able to reach New York, and that no serious consequences would result from his taking her there that night.
To others it might seem a crazy project, but Morris felt that it was right, and he nerved himself to his part of the toil, harnessing his own horse and leading him around to the door, where he left him while he went to get Katy ready. She was not sleeping now, for the powerful stimulant given just before leaving her had taken effect, and she seemed a great deal better, fastening her cloak herself and tying her own bonnet, while Morris put an extra shawl around her, and Mrs. Hull brought the hot soapstone prepared for her feet. Then, when all was ready, Morris carried her to the covered sleigh, wrapping robes and furs around her so that it seemed impossible she should take cold.