That night she sang with such power and sweetness that the minister turned and smiled upon her at the end.

He spoke over the low railing which separated them: "You surpass yourself to-night." Looking across the heads of the audience as they began to take seats Harold saw this smile and action, and his face darkened again.
For her solo Mary selected one which expressed in simple words the capabilities each humble soul had for doing good.

If one could not storm the stars in song one could bathe a weary brow.

If one could not write a mighty poem one could speak a word of cheer to the toiler by the way.
It was all poor stuff enough, but the singer filled it with significance and appeal.

At the moment it seemed as if such things were really worth doing.