For over twenty years I 've been a great sufferer . For twenty long , weary years I 've been dying by inches . '' `` How painful ! '' said Anne , trying to be sympathetic and succeeding only in feeling idiotic . `` There have been scores of nights when they 've thought I could never live to see the dawn , '' went on Mrs. Douglas solemnly . `` Nobody knows what I 've gone through -- nobody can know but myself . Well , it ca n't last very much longer now . My weary pilgrimage will soon be over , Miss Shirley . It is a great comfort to me that John will have such a good wife to look after him when his mother is gone -- a great comfort , Miss Shirley . '' `` Janet is a lovely woman , '' said Anne warmly . `` Lovely ! A beautiful character , '' assented Mrs. Douglas . `` And a perfect housekeeper -- something I never was . My health would not permit it , Miss Shirley . I am indeed thankful that John has made such a wise choice . I hope and believe that he will be happy . He is my only son , Miss Shirley , and his happiness lies very near my heart . '' `` Of course , '' said Anne stupidly . For the first time in her life she was stupid . Yet she could not imagine why .
She seemed XXXXX have absolutely nothing to say to this sweet , smiling , angelic old lady who was patting her hand so kindly .
Anne For Janet Of by in on that to years