It seemed pathetic to Jean to think that the happiness of wedded life had come to her so late, and for such a short space of time, but Mrs. Douglas had no complaints or regrets.
"I went to him when he wanted me most, and we shall only be a little time away from each other. My heaven is all the sweeter for his presence there. I can afford to wait till I am sent for!"
She was full of affectionate interest in Jean, and after the girl had poured out an account of herself during her time abroad, Mrs. Douglas remained very thoughtful. Then she put her hand caressingly on Jean's wavy hair, for she was sitting at her feet, with her head resting on her knee.
"Jean, darling, isn't it sometimes good to look back, and trace our steps through life? You came to me an undisciplined, wilful, thoughtless girl; you are leaving me to-morrow a thoughtful, earnest woman. Do you realise how all your circumstances, your disappointments, your troubles as well as your pleasures, have been the moulding of the clay in the hands of the Great Potter?"
Jean looked up thoughtfully.
"I would not have a day different if I might," she said emphatically.
And Mrs. Douglas said softly—
"And that is what most of us will say when we get to heaven."
FINIS