"Thank God!" sobbed Janie, kneeling by the chair, and drawing Andy within the circle of her new hopes.
The old clock ticked and ticked contentedly. The hissing of the kettle on the fire recalled Janie to her happy tasks, and Martin and his son wondered what the future would bring.
CHAPTER IX
PEACE
"Only the cane now, Andy. The days of crutches are over!"
"Yes, Ruth, the country, the dear free country and I can nearly go alone now." Andy stood up proudly and beamed upon the pretty girl standing by his mother.
"I declare!" he laughed, "you look but little older than Ruth, mother!"
"Box his ears well, lass," said Janie, mightily pleased. "He struts, does Andy, and you and I must take him down."