In view of Mrs.Ward's departure for a fortnight, her father, still with an eye to wages, deferred giving notice.

"Besides," he thought, "Mrs.Ward may be convicted and converted after she's been dealt with." Helen had risen, and was writing some instructions for her maid: just what was to be cooked for the preacher, and what precautions taken for his comfort.

As she put her pen down, she turned to look at her husband.
He was sitting, leaning forward, with his head bowed upon his hand, and his eyes covered.
"Helen," he said, in a low, repressed voice, "once more, just once more, let me entreat you; and then we will not speak of this before you go." She sighed.

"Yes, dearest, say anything you want." There was a moment's silence, and then John rose, and stood looking down at her.

"I have such a horror of your going away.