"And there—may—be only one way, Mattie."
"Only one way, I hope."
"I trust you—God bless you!—you were always a good girl. Call the boy—my poor boy, Sid!"
Mattie did as requested. At a slow, almost a painfully slow pace, Sidney re-entered, his hand still on Ann Packet's arm.
"Sid—I—I think I'll say good-bye, now!"
Sidney sprung forward and caught his hands.
"Not yet—not good-bye yet, sir!"
"Why not? I don't fear to say it Sid—I'm strong at—heart—still; it's a brave—a brave parting! No regrets—no sense of duty—neg—lected! A kind father, I hope—a—a good son—I know! God bless you, boy!—peace and happiness to yours—in life. Mattie—think—of him!"
Mattie bowed her head, and covered her face with her hands.
"Sidney—help her, too—if she's in trouble—ever an old friend."