"Do you remember the day that Father died?"
"Of course."
"That afternoon I was sitting here reading and I looked up and saw an automobile standing before the door. When I went down an old friend of Father's was in the office, Dr. Lanfair, with his wife. They stayed only a little while, and soon after they went away Father became ill. He wanted me to give a message to Dr. Lanfair. Do you remember that, Matthew?"
"Yes," answered Matthew uneasily.
"But I couldn't remember his name. Last fall I got a place accidentally at his house. I wrote you how I had been struck by an automobile. But I didn't know then who he was. I had all arrangements made to go to college, but now he wishes to help me because of his old friendship for Father. I'm all ready and I wanted to see you before I left."
Matthew received this announcement in silence. She cherished no resentment; that was one of her notable characteristics.
Ellen read his thoughts.
"I understand everything, Matthew. You did what you thought was right, and you have certainly improved the farm. Isn't it lovely here?"
Matthew made no answer. A dull red crept up under the unpleasant growth of beard.
"I heard you had another little boy."