The Complete Writings of Nathaniel Hawthorne; With Portraits, Illustrations, and Facsimiles Volume 15 (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1900 edition. Excerpt: ...to be given her. This will set her on her feet again." _ The hue was somewhat changed, he thought, from what he had observed of Aunt Keziah's customary decoction; instead of a turbid yellow, the crimson petals of the flower had tinged it, and made it almost red; not a brilliant red, however, nor the least inviting in appearance. Septimius smelt it, and thought he could distinguish a little of the rich odor of the flower, but was not sure. He considered whether to taste it; but the horrible flavor of Aunt Keziah's decoction recurred strongly to his remembrance, and he concluded that were he evidently at the point ofdeath, he might possibly be bold enough to taste it again; but that nothing short of the hope of a century's existence at least would repay another taste of that fierce and nauseous bitterness. Aunt Keziah loved it; and as she brewed, so let her drink. He went upstairs, careful not to spill a drop of the brimming cup, and approached the old woman's bedside, where she lay, groaning as before, and breaking out into a spiteful croak the moment he was within earshot. " You don't care whether I live or die," said she. " You 've been waiting in hopes I shall die, and so save yourself further trouble." " By no means, Aunt Keziah," said Septimius. "Here is the medicine, which I have warmed, and measured out, and mingled, as well as I knew how; and I think it will do you a great deal of good." " Won't you taste it, Seppy, my dear? " said Aunt Keziah, mollified by the praise of her beloved mixture. " Drink first, dear, so that my sick old lips need not taint it. You look pale, Septimius; it will do you good." " No, ...