Suddenly a man came running from the wood , pale and anxious , saying , as he hastened by for help , `` Blasted tree fell on him ! Bleed to death before the doctor comes ! '' `` Who ? who ? '' cried the startled trio . But the man ran on , with some breathless reply , in which only a name was audible -- `` Basset . '' `` The deuce it is ! '' and Randal dropped his pencil , while the girls sprang up in dismay . Then , with one impulse , they hastened to the distant group , half visible behind the fallen trees and corded wood . Sophie was there first , and forcing her way through the little crowd of men , saw a red-shirted figure on the ground , crushed and bleeding , and threw herself down beside it with a cry that pierced the hearts of those who heard it . In the act she saw it was not Saul , and covered her bewildered face as if to hide its joy . A strong arm lifted her , and the familiar voice said cheeringly , -- `` I 'm all right , dear . Poor Bruce is hurt , but we 've sent for help . Better go right home and forget all about it . '' `` Yes , I will , if I can do nothing ; '' and Sophie meekly returned to her friends who stood outside the circle over which Saul 's head towered , assuring them of his safety . Hoping they had not seen her agitation , she led Emily away , leaving Randal to give what aid he could and bring them news of the poor wood-chopper 's state . Aunt Plumy produced the `` camphire '' the moment she saw Sophie 's pale face , and made her lie down , while the brave old lady trudged briskly off with bandages and brandy to the scene of action . On her return she brought comfortable news of the man , so the little flurry blew over and was forgotten by all but Sophie , who remained pale and quiet all the evening , tying evergreen as if her life depended on it . `` A good night 's sleep will set her up . She ai n't used to such things , dear child , and needs cossetin ' , '' said Aunt Plumy , purring over her until she was in her bed , with a hot stone at her feet and a bowl of herb tea to quiet her nerves .
An hour later when XXXXX went up , she peeped in to see if Sophie was sleeping nicely , and was surprised to find the invalid wrapped in a dressing-gown writing busily .
Basset Bruce Emily Plumy Sophie camphire cossetin deuce evening wood-chopper