Mrs. Reardon hastily laid down her work.
"You are tired, Matthew," said she. "I was afraid that the children would be too much for you."
"No, it is not that; I like to hear them. It does not hurt me. I am better to-night."
"You really feel better, Matthew? I am so glad. I do believe that this nice beef-tea is doing you good."
"It ought," replied her husband, with a sigh, "considering what it has cost."
"Never you mind about that," said Mrs. Reardon, "all you have to do is to try and get well as fast as you can. But you are sure the children do not tire you?"
"No; I like it, I tell you. Where were we, Bess?"
"At the foot of the cross, father."
"We could not be in a better place, I'm thinking."
"So Christian thought," continued Bessie. "And while he stood there crying for joy, behold three shining ones came to him—"