Laddie (with reproach, and with a certain dignity). Father, I wish you were a learned man. (Walks away from his father; goes up the path. The little girl follows him.)
(The evidences of public excitement increase visibly. From every part of the country spirits can be seen moving, with signs of acute pleasure. Some hasten towards the Temple; others gather in groups in the roads and paths; all present a reverent but joyful aspect.)
Mrs. Fayth (gliding away). I cannot lose a moment. (Beckons to Dr. Thorne as she moves out of the grove and up the path. Calls.) Doctor! Doctor!
Dr. Thorne (shakes his head). I do not understand.
(Mrs. Fayth remains still full in sight, standing as if to watch a pageant or to see the prominent figure of a procession.)
(Laddie runs on beyond her, watching eagerly; shades his eyes with his little hand.)
(Maidie flits along with him.)
(Dr. Thorne stands quite alone. He, too, shades his eyes with his hand, and scans the horizon and the foreground closely.)
(The shadow of the great cross falls upon him where he stands.)
(It can now be seen that the happy people beyond give evidence of greeting some one who is passing by them. Some weep for joy; others laugh for rapture. Some stretch their arms out as if in ecstasy. Some throw themselves on the ground in humility. Some seem to be entreating a benediction. But the figure of Him who passes by them remains invisible. The excitement now increases, and extends along the group of spirits until it reaches those in the foreground. Here can now be seen and recognized some old patients of Dr. Thorne’s—Mrs. True, Norah, and Jerry.)