And if it hadn't been for you, Mary, it would never have happened.

God had put it into your hand, this joy, and I bless you for it! Oh, and Mary--Mary--it is only for a little little while this life of ours! Nothing matters--not our worst sin and sorrow--but God, and our love to Him.

I shall meet you some day--I pray I may--in His sight and all will be well, the pain all forgotten--all!' She raised herself again and looked down with yearning passionate pity on the shadowed form.

Oh, blessed answer of heart to heart! There were tears forming under the heavy lids, the corners of the lips were relaxed and soft.

Slowly the feeble hand sought her own.