"Yes, I know. I've made inquiries," replied his father. "How is Susie?"
"She's in the Children's Hospital, and getting better. The doctor says she is going to walk in a few months. O father, I can hardly believe you are here!"
"Can't you? Just feel this!" And he squeezed the boy's arm. "How is mother living?"
"By her needle. She does beautiful needlework."
"I know! I know!" said the man abruptly. "Isn't this Brook Street? You go on, and I'll wait here a bit. But don't be long, Jim, don't be long! My patience will soon bubble over. I've been burning to get a peep at her."
Jim smiled brightly, ran a few yards, and then walked soberly to the house. His mother was busy with her work, and she looked up at him in surprise.
"What is it, my boy?" she asked. "Why aren't you at the shop?"
"It's all right, mother," answered the lad; "there's no bad news. Mr. Broad said I might come. I've something to tell you—something pleasant, that will make you very happy."
"Yes?" she said wonderingly, and looking straight into his eyes.
"A marvellous thing, mother—more marvellous than you ever dreamed of. Only Susie said it could be true, and even her faith failed."