It had been his habit to turn to the bottom of the last page before he read the preceding ones, so that he might see the signature and note the final words of affection or friendship, such as "Ever your friend," or "Affectionately yours," or simply "Your friend," written above Jane's name.

These were to him the thermometric readings of the warmth of her heart.
Half way down the first page--before he had time to turn the leaf--he caught his breath in an effort to smother a sudden outburst of joy.
Then with a supreme effort he regained his self-control and read the letter to the end.

(He rarely mentioned Jane's name to his mother, and he did not want his delight over the contents of the letter to be made the basis of comment.) Mrs.Cavendish's outburst over the contents of her own envelope broke the silence and relieved his tension.
"Oh, how fortunate!" she exclaimed.

"Listen, John; now I really have good news for you.

You remember I told you that I met old Dr.Pencoyd the last time I was in Philadelphia, and had a long talk with him.