He did not answer her, but turned to Mr Maxwell and repeated his words:
“I ask nothing but that God may do His will with me and mine.”
“That is always best,” said the minister.
Katie looked from one to the other.
“Come, grandfather,” said she.
He went slowly out, touching the door and the walls to steady himself by, and when he went in to grannie, Katie softly shut the door. There was no one to tell what was said there between the two. If Mr Fleming had needed anything utterly to break his heart with loving shame, and thankfulness, and sorrow, the glad serenity and trust of his dear old wife would have done it. He put restraint upon himself lest he should excite her beyond her strength, but she smiled at him.
“Joy seldom does harm, and I am better, though I am but weak and feckless. I’ll soon mend now.”
“And are you really better? I could almost find it in my heart to let you go to Him, nay, I canna say gladly, but God’s will be done, whether you be to stay or go.”
“Surely. And in His good time He’ll take me, but no’ just yet. You canna spare me yet.”
The old man laughed a glad, tremulous laugh, but the tears were not very far from his eyes, and he patted gently the wrinkled hand, grown thin and limp.