Mrs. Pecq said this in a low voice to Mrs. Minot , who came in as often as she could , to see what her neighbor needed ; for both mothers were anxious , and sympathy drew them to one another . While one woman talked , the other looked about the little room , not wondering in the least that Jill found it hard to be contented there . It was very neat , but so plain that there was not even a picture on the walls , nor an ornament upon the mantel , except the necessary clock , lamp , and match-box . The paper was ugly , being a deep buff with a brown figure that did look very like spiders sprawling over it , and might well make one nervous to look at day after day . Jill was asleep in the folding chair Dr. Whiting had sent , with a mattress to make it soft . The back could be raised or lowered at will ; but only a few inches had been gained as yet , and the thin hair pillow was all she could bear . She looked very pretty as she lay , with dark lashes against the feverish cheeks , lips apart , and a cloud of curly black locks all about the face pillowed on one arm . She seemed like a brilliant little flower in that dull place , -- for the French blood in her veins gave her a color , warmth , and grace which were very charming . Her natural love of beauty showed itself in many ways : a red ribbon had tied up her hair , a gay but faded shawl was thrown over the bed , and the gifts sent her were arranged with care upon the table by her side among her own few toys and treasures . There was something pathetic in this childish attempt to beautify the poor place , and Mrs. Minot 's eyes were full as she looked at the tired woman , whose one joy and comfort lay there in such sad plight . `` My dear soul , cheer up , and we will help one another through the hard times , '' she said , with a soft hand on the rough one , and a look that promised much . `` Please God , we will , mem ! With such good friends , I never should complain . I try not to do it , but it breaks my heart to see my little lass spoiled for life , most like ; '' and Mrs. Pecq pressed the kind hand with a despondent sigh . `` We wo n't say , or even think , that , yet . Everything is possible to youth and health like Janey 's . We must keep her happy , and time will do the rest , I 'm sure . Let us begin at once , and have a surprise for her when she wakes . '' As she spoke , Mrs. Minot moved quietly about the room , pinning the pages of several illustrated papers against the wall at the foot of the bed , and placing to the best advantage the other comforts she had brought . `` Keep up your heart , neighbor .
I have an idea in my head which I think will help us all , if I can carry it out , '' she XXXXX , cheerily , as she went , leaving Mrs. Pecq to sew on Jack 's new night-gowns , with swift fingers , and the grateful wish that she might work for these good friends forever .
Let Please brought looked raised said say spoiled try wondering