Johnsy fell very seriously ill in November. She had pneumonia.She would lie in her bed without moving, just gazing out of the window. Sue, her friend, became very worried. She sent for the doctor. Although he came everyday there was no change in Johnsy’s condition
Johnsy, it seems, has made up her mind that she is not going to get well. If she doesn’t want to live, medicines will not help her
Is anything worrying Johnsy?
No, but why do you ask
Sue tried her best to make Johnsy take an interest in things around her like clothes, fashion painting etc. but Johnsy did not respond and continued to lie on her bed
Twelve - eleven - ten - nine - eight- seven
Suddenly Sue heard Johnsy whisper something and rushed to the bed
Six whispered Johnsy. They are falling faster now. Three days ago there were almost a hundred leaves. There are only five left now
What is it dear
It is Autumn and the leaves will fall
When the last leaf falls, I will die. I have known this for the last three days
Oh that's nonsense, What have old ivy leaves to do with your getting well? The doctor is confident that you will get better