And I knelt on the threshold in low, fervent prayer.

* * * * *

“Why, papa,” a little voice called soft and clear,

As she climbed on my knee and kissed off a tear,

“What a long nap you’ve had; why mamma’s at tea,

Now, papa, wake up and come on with me.”

“My darling!” I whispered, and pressed to my face

A cheek that was soft as a billow of lace.

“What if the old home can not weather the storms

When a foretaste of Heaven I hold in my arms.”