“Oh, sir, I don't ever expect to repay you, and Miss Grower and Mr. Hodder!
“Why, you are repaying us,” he replied, cutting her short, “you are making us all very happy. And Sally tells me at the Exchange they like your work so well they are asking for more. I shouldn't have suspected,” he added, with a humorous glance at the rector, “that Mr. Hodder knew so much about embroidery.”
He rose, and put the money in his desk,—such was his genius for avoiding situations which threatened to become emotional.
“I've started another one,” she told them, as she departed.
A few moments later Miss Grower appeared.
“Sally,” said Mr. Bentley, “you're a wise woman. I believe I've made that remark before. You have managed that case wonderfully.”
“There was a time,” replied Miss Grower, thoughtfully, “when it looked pretty black. We've got a chance with her now, I think.”
“I hope so. I begin to feel so,” Mr. Bentley declared.
“If we succeed,” Miss Grower went on, “it will be through the heart. And if we lose her again, it will be through the heart.”
Hodder started at this proof of insight.