But she seemed to go distracted when she learned that she must always be childless. It was that that unsettled her reason.

Madam Helseth.

Yes, poor lady, that was a dreadful blow to her.

Rebecca.

[Takes up her crochet and sits in a chair by the window.] But after all—don’t you think it was a good thing for the Pastor, Madam Helseth?

Madam Helseth.

What, Miss?

Rebecca.

That there were no children. Don’t you think so?

Madam Helseth.