never be great or good without
you--things are so hard. Only stay with me a little while. No one has
ever loved me as you love me."

A glow of light passed over the sweet face.

"Darling, no one _will_ ever love you like I have loved you. Jeff, you
have been a great happiness to me. By and by, when you come to me, I
shall know, perhaps, that you have remembered all that I have said to
you. Oh, doctor, the pain--again."

She gasped for breath, and Mrs. Parsons lifted her up and put some
cordial to her lips. When she spoke again she wandered a little:

"I was so happy in India--we were all so happy together. Dear
husband--our little son--is growing up all that we could wish him--by
and by--he will comfort you. I shall know--perhaps that you speak of
me--sometimes."

"Mother, you _shall_ know," burst from Jeff. He spoke in a hoarse way.
Only by a supreme effort could he choke back his sobs. Now he had
raised himself and was gazing into the beloved eyes, which seemed to
see some far-off vision.

"And, mother, I promise, when you are gone--I will be--all you wish. I
will never, never forget--all my life through--and when--I see you
again--I shall see you again, you know--you will know how much I have
gone on loving you--and remembering. Oh, mother, can't I go with
you?--must I wait here alone? You will never kiss me, never touch
me--and when--I am a real hero--your voice will not praise me. Take me
with you, mother, mother!" Then Jeff fell back unconscious, and was
carried out of the room by Uncle Hugh, who was sobbing like a child.
The angel of death did not tarry. In the morning Jeff knew that his
sweet mother had said her last "good-night."

* * * * *

Years have gone by, and Jeff Scott is a man now. He is reckoned a real
hero in these days, one whose name has been a household word. He is a
soldier like all the men of his race--a right gallant soldier who wears
a V.C. upon his broad breast. He has seen much service, and done brave
deeds by flood and field, under the roar of cannon, and in instant fear
of death.

His fiery impetuous spirit is in a measure subdued, but still his rash
acts of bravery have been reproved with a smile by his superior
officers.

In one campaign he had swam a river under hot fire of the enemy,
carrying despatches between his teeth--he had rallied his regiment by
picking up the colours dropped by two wounded comrades, though his own
right