"Perhaps I shall sing it some other time when you are here,"
Doodles suggested hopefully.
The woman shook her head. Her reply was soft and broken. "I shan't ever be here again."
"Oh!" Doodles was instantly sympathetic. Then a gleam lighted his sorrowing face. "I'll tell you what," he began hurriedly, "I'll come to your house and sing for you this afternoon—that is, if you'd like me to," he added.
Such joy flooded the tearful eyes! "Oh, you dear boy! if you would!
I don't know how to thank you!"
"That's all right! I'd love to do it. Shall I come early, right after dinner, or—"
"Oh, come early! It is so good of you!" The tears threatened to overflow their bounds.
Doodles glanced down the street. "What is your address, please? I have to take the next car."
"Why, yes! I forgot! I live at 304 North Charles Street."
"Thank you." He lifted his cap with a bright smile. "I'll be there!" he promised and was off.
The woman watched him as he hailed the passing car. He saw her from a window and waved his hand. She returned the salute, and then walked slowly away.