CHAPTER XIV.
The feeling in Lockhaven about Helen Ward's unbelief was not confined to Elder Dean; for every one who knew Mrs.Davis knew what the preacher's wife thought of Tom's salvation, and judged her accordingly.

As for the widow herself, the hope Helen had given her quite died out under the fostering care of Elder Dean.

She grew more bitter than ever, and refused even to speak on the subject.
"No, ma'am," she said wearily, when Helen went to see her after the funeral,--"no, ma'am, 'tain't no use to talk.

Elder Dean's been here, and I know there ain't no good hopin'.

Even the preacher don't say there's any good hopin'.