Archie showed a most lively concern.
"No, no, you exaggerate. Look here, Betty, if someone ought to go North, I'll go."
"Oh, Archie—if you would."
"Dear old Mark! Of course I'll go. It happens that I can get a week's leave. I'll bring him home with me."
He spoke in a warm, sympathetic tone, kindling Betty's gratitude and affection. Never had she liked Mark's brother so well.
"You can spare the time, Archie?"
"Yes, yes; I'm so glad you spoke to me. By the way, I've a piece of news for you—great news, too. I am commanded to preach at Windsor."
"Oh, Archie, I am pleased to hear that. It will mean so much—won't it."
"Yes."
She asked questions: Was the date set? Had he a theme? and so forth. "You know," she continued gravely, "I shall never forget your Westchester sermon. Many sermons touch one, but that gripped. Often, I've not been quite fair to you, and now I'm horribly ashamed of myself. You forgive me?"