“Strange,” he thought, “I might have had such a child of mine own; but no, it was not to be. Yes, I know what sorrow is: I have indeed made my sacrifice.
“All things work together for good, Aline,” he said aloud, “the forces of good must win in the end, but the powers of darkness are strong and the victory may be long delayed; yet it will come.”
“But the world is cruel, Father,” said Aline.
“Yes, my child, I know, and the world often seems to be victorious; but it is only victorious in the things of the world. The principle of love and the principle of beauty will outlast the world,” and he smiled a sweet smile.
Aline gazed into his face and he seemed to be looking into the things beyond.
“Be of good courage, little maiden, fear not them that have power to hurt the body. The Lord be with you, and may the Mother of God watch over you; farewell.”
He turned as he spoke and Aline saw him cross over to the cottage of Benjamin Darley. She went on to the Arnsides and found both mother and son at home.
“Ah, Honey,” said the old woman, “it is good to see your bonnie face, it’s a sight for sair een.”
“Mistress Aline is not looking very well, mother,” said John.
“Nonsense, John,” said Aline, and added brightly,—“I have come to ask you all you can tell me about Newbiggin. I know I can trust you.”