“Because I do,” oracularly spoke Tom.
“Will you condescend to inform me how you know it, Tom, if you will not inform Annabel?” asked Mr. Channing.
Tom laughed. “The dean began his close residence yesterday, papa. Therefore we know he will preach to-day.”
Mr. Channing sighed. He was debarred from attending the services, and he felt the deprivation keenly when he found that any particularly eminent man was to fill the cathedral pulpit. The dean of Helstonleigh was an admirable preacher.
“Oh!” exclaimed Mr. Channing, in the uncontrollable impulse of the moment, “if I could only regain health and strength!”
“It will come, James; God willing,” said Mrs. Channing, looking up hopefully from the cups she was filling. “What I have heard of Dr. Lamb’s restoration has put new confidence into me.”
“I think Mr. Yorke intends to bring Dr. Lamb to see you this afternoon, papa,” said Constance.
“I shall be glad to see him; I shall be glad to hear the particulars of his case and its cure,” exclaimed Mr. Channing, with all conscious eagerness. “Did Mr. Yorke tell you he should bring him to-day, Constance?”
“Yes, papa. Dr. Lamb intends to be at the cathedral for afternoon service, and Mr. Yorke said he would bring him here afterwards.”
“You must get him to take tea with us, Mary.”