Clara lay propped up by pillows, but her breathing was ragged and gasping, her face was grey, and her lips and nails had a blueish tint. Hugh Byrd was in Aiken drumming up support for his run for Senate. Madeline should be on her way, but Livvie didn’t expect her til at least noon. Which might prove too late. Clara’s eyelids slowly opened, and she took a moment to focus on her daughter. Livvie smiled at her and squeezed her hand. “Liv?” her mother said. “Yes, Mama. I’m here.” She could feel a weak squeeze as Clara acknowledged her. “Daddy?” Clara asked. She had been in and out of consciousness for several days. Livvie shook her head. “I’m sorry, Mama. He’s not back. I sent a telegram yesterday, but he’s travelin’ around some.” Her mother smiled wanly. “That’s all right, honey. It’s ever been that way with your Daddy.
