"He is looking at us now. He hears what I say. I'm not one that believes much in promises. Nobody's ever kept any to me. But I call Him to witness that what I have taken upon myself I will perform, that I will do my duty by you, and I will be good to you always and be your best friend, whatever may happen—so help me God."


CHAPTER XXXIII

"But I wait in a horror of strangeness—

A tool on His workshop floor,

Worn to the butt, and banished

His hand for evermore."

W. E. Henley.

In the sick-room all was still.