with me? There is still a half hour, before your
evening work begins in the carving shop. Come in."

"I am sorry I have not time now, to indulge myself in such luxury as a
chat with you always proves. I came to beg the loan of your India ink
copy of the marble screens at Agra; which I have an idea would be very
effective done in cherry, for the panels under the new bookcases we are
designing for the library."

"The copy is up stairs in the studio; but I shall be glad to get it for
you."

"No; with your permission I can help myself, and I am going up there
now, for some red chalk. I know exactly where to find the picture,
because I was examining it two days ago. What think you of my idea?"

"I am afraid you will find cherry too dark. A lighter wood, I think,
would be better adapted to the exceeding delicacy of the design."

"Wait till I cut out a sample scroll, and we will talk it over. Sister
Ruth asked me to hand to you this paper, which contains a very
complimentary notice of your lovely picture. I read it as I came up,
and congratulate you on all the fine things said. You scarcely know how
proud we feel of our Sister's work. Thanks for the use of the drawing."

She smiled, nodded and closed the door; and when her bright cheery
countenance vanished, it seemed as though a film of cloud had drifted
across the sun.

Beryl went back to a low chair in front of the window, and opened the
paper, which chanced to be the New York "Herald." Unfolding it to hunt
the designated article, her glance fell accidentally upon the personal
column. Her heart leaped, then almost ceased beating, as she read:

"Important. Bertie will meet Gigina in the Museum at Niagara Falls,
Canada side, any day during the last week in October."

Two years and a half had almost gone by since she inserted the
advertisement, to which this was evidently a reply. Long ago she had
ceased to expect any tidings through this channel; but the seed sown in
faith, watered by tears, and guarded by continual prayer had stirred to
life; blossomed in the sunshine of God's pitying smile, and after weary
waiting, the ripe fruit fell at her feet. How fair and smooth, rosy and
fragrant it appeared to her famishing heart? How opportune the guiding
hand that pointed her way, when cross roads baffled her. Two days
later, she would have been journeying away from the coveted goal. Now
the tide of battle was turning. Had the stars rolled back on their
courses to rescue