She was the girl who had called good-by after Celia years before, when she left for her journey to the West and the Magic City.
It was twilight when Seth came to Celia's gate.
A woman sat alone on the step of the portico, looking out down the pike.
Seth paused, his hand on the latch, seeing which the woman shook her head negatively.
Seth raised the latch, whereupon she suddenly stood, frowning.
"I have nothing for you," she called out raspingly. "There is not a thing in the house to eat. Go away! Go away!"
"Celia!" Seth cried out, stabbed to the heart. "I am not a beggar for bread, but give me a crust of kindness for the love of God! I am Seth."