CHAPTER IV.
THE MISER.
Whilst Mr Gwynne is reading his sermon, and Mrs Prothero is nursing the mendicant Gladys, an event is passing in the neighbouring country-town, involving matters of interest to her, and those belonging to her.

In a small bedroom over a little huckster's shop, an old man lies dangerously ill.

By his side is seated a middle-aged woman watching.

In a dark corner, behind the bed, stands a man, who is so deep in shadow that you scarcely know whether he is young or old.
The room is small and shabby, and contains apparently few comforts for one nearly approaching his last hour.
There is a tap at the door, upon which the man behind the bed goes out, and returns, almost immediately, followed by Rowland Prothero.

He goes towards the bed, and stooping down, whispers to the sick man.
'Father, you wished to see Rowland--he is here.' Rowland advances, and takes the seat vacated for him by the woman.
The three inmates of the room are Mr and Mrs Griffith Jenkins, and their only son, Howel.