"Do any of the neighbours come?"
"Not one, though I've often invited them. My wife and I are the only two since Jean left us."
"Is she your daughter?"
"Yes, the youngest, and the last of the girls to go from home. We always had a hymn or two when she was here, for Jean had a fine voice." A far-away look came into the old man's eyes as he uttered these words. There was a gleam of pride, as well, showing how much he thought of this daughter.
"Where is she now?" Douglas asked.
"She's in the city. She's been in the hospital there nigh on to three years, training to be a nurse. We're looking for her home now any day. I hope you'll meet her, sir, for my Jean is a comely girl, and as good as she is beautiful. We have been very lonely without her. She always took such an interest in Church matters, and taught in the Sunday school. The children loved her, and she did so much good. I'm not much use in the place, as I have to stay here all the time just mending things. But, Jean! my, she was a power!"
"May I come to your service next Sunday?" Douglas asked as he rose to go.
Into Joe's eyes leaped a look of pleasure.
"Would you care to come?"
"Indeed I should."