“For the night cometh in which no man can work,” said papa solemnly.
An awe fell over us all. One and another dropped in to wonder at the occurrence. Sudden deaths always shock a community greatly. Even the children did not want to play but sat on the porch steps and looked into vacancy. Louis went up stairs directly after supper, but I heard him pacing his room restlessly. I had put the little ones to bed and was going down stairs when he called.
“Did you want anything?” I inquired.
“No—that is—are you busy?”
“Not especially.”
“I am going away so soon;” he said apologetically.
“And if I can do anything for you, I shall be glad to,” I made answer cheerfully. “Shall I come in and read?”
“Thank you—I don’t care about that, I am in an odd, inconsequent mood to night. Suppose you talk to me? I believe your voice has a soothing effect.”
“Let us go down on the porch. It is cooler.”
“Where are the others?”