connecting rails and interlacing switches the train rolled into the

station and stood still.

It was a hot August morning. The broad streets glowed in the sun, and

the white-shuttered houses stared at the hot thoroughfares like closed

bakers' ovens set along the highway. Philip was oppressed with the heavy

air; the sweltering city lay as in a swoon. Taking a street car, he rode

away to the northern part of the city, the newer portion, formerly the

district of Spring Garden, for in this the Boltons now lived, in a small

brick house, befitting their altered fortunes.

He could scarcely restrain his impatience when he came in sight of the

house. The window shutters were not "bowed"; thank God, for that. Ruth

was still living, then. He ran up the steps and rang. Mrs. Bolton met

him at the door.

Thee is very welcome, Philip."

And Ruth?"

She is very ill, but quieter than, she has been, and the fever is a

little abating. The most dangerous time will be when the fever leaves

her. The doctor fears she will not have strength enough to rally from

it. Yes, thee can see her."

Mrs. Bolton led the way to the little chamber where Ruth lay. "Oh,"

674

The Gilded Age