One after one
God bless you and direct you . '' She raised her face , and her eyes sought his with a long , questioning , pleading gaze , so full of anguish that he could scarcely endure it . Then he saw the last spark of hope expire ; and she bent her queenly head an instant , and silently passed from the parlor . `` I have watched my first and holiest hopes depart , One after one ; I have held the hand of Death upon my heart , And made no moan . '' `` Pardon my intrusion , Mrs. Gerome , and ascribe it to Elsie 's anxiety concerning your health . In compliance with her request , I have come to ascertain whether you really require my attention . '' Dr. Grey placed his hat and gloves on the piano , and established himself comfortably in a large chair near the arch , where Mrs. Gerome , palette in hand , sat before her easel .