"No, my child, I did not mean that. It was a nightmare—a breath-shape breathed upon us by the devil while we slept. But we are awake now, and God's sun shines. Go to her and tell her that my brother is not dead."
"I will. But, father, do you realize how resourceful you have made me—how replete with falsehood? And must I not go into the closet and pray for forgiveness?"
"It was done for love, my dear; and love, which is the soul of all up yonder, has forgiven already."
Florence and Mrs. Elbridge entered the drawing room. "Who brought that news that his brother was not dead?" Mrs. Elbridge asked.
"A man. He was in a great hurry to catch a train and could not stop long. He brought direct word from Mr. Henry himself."
"Then there can be no doubt about it."
"No. And I did not believe it in the first place."
"Who is in there with him?"
"I think Agnes and the preacher have just gone in."
"This is a happy day," said Mrs. Elbridge, looking toward the door.