It is an extreme of love, indeed, if no circumstance however impelling raises a regret in the heart of a man; for he flung off with a weak gesture any chiding of conscience against cherishing his dream, and abandoned himself wholly to his yearning for the girl in the tissue of moonbeams.
There was a quiet step on the earth at the threshold.

Joseph, the shepherd, stood there.

The two looked at each other; one with inquiry and weakness in his face; the other with good-will and reassurance.
"Boy," said the Maccabee feebly, "I have been sick." "Friend, I am witness to that.

I am your nurse," the boy replied.
After a little silence the Maccabee extended his hand.

The boy took it with a sudden flush of emotion, but feeling its weakness, refrained from pressing it too hard, and laid it back with great care on his patient's breast.