One cold night in early winter, James, as was his wont now, went to spend the evening in talking with David and in watching Christine. That was really all it was; for, though she had resumed her house duties, she took little part in conversation. She had always been inclined to silence, but now a faint smile and a "Yes" or "No" were her usual response, even to her father's remarks. This night he found David out, and he hesitated whether to trouble Christine or not. He stood for a moment in the open door and looked at her. She was sitting by the table with a little Testament open in her hand; but she was rather musing on what she had been reading than continuing her occupation.
"Christine!"
"James!"
"May I come in?"
"Yes, surely."
"I hear your father has gone to a town-meeting."
"Yes."
"And he is to be made a bailie."
"Yes."
"I am very glad. It will greatly please him, and there is no citizen more worthy of the honor."