edraggled traveler entered the outskirts of
the then straggling but growing and busy village of Hamilton. Tired in
body and benumbed in mind, he made his way to the hotel, conscious only
of his desire and determination to look once more upon the face of the
woman whose image was so indelibly impressed upon his mind.

Approaching the desk he nervously asked if the doctor was among the
guests, flushed at the answer, demanded a room, ascended the steep
staircase, and was soon in bed and asleep. Fatigued by his long tramp,
he did not awaken until after noon, and then, having bathed, dressed and
broken his long fast, he knocked at the door of the room occupied by the
doctor and his wife.

There was a quick but gentle step in answer to his summons, and at the
music of that footfall his heart beat tumultuously. The door opened, and
before him stood the woman who had brought about this mysterious train
of events in his life.

She started back as she saw him, with an involuntary and timid motion,
but so great was her surprise and joy that she could not control her
speech or action sufficiently to greet him.

"Who is there?" cried the doctor, in his loud, imperative voice.

"Mr. Corson," she answered in tones that were scarcely audible.

"Corson? Who the d-d-deuce is Corson, and what the deuce does he want?"
he asked, rising and approaching the door.

The instant his eyes fell on the countenance of the Quaker, he threw up
both hands and uttered a prolonged whistle of astonishment.

"The preacher!" he exclaimed. "The lost is found. The p-p-prodigal has
returned. Come in, and let us k-k-kill the fatted calf!"

Coarse as the welcome was, it was full of sincerity, and its heartiness
was like balm to the wounded spirit of the youth. He grasped the
extended hand and permitted himself to be drawn into the room.

Pepeeta, who had recovered from the first shock of surprise and delight,
came forward and greeted him with a shy reserve. She gave him her hand,
and its gentle touch reanimated his soul. She smiled at him,--a gracious
smile, and its light illumined the darkness of his heart. His sadness
vanished. He once more felt an emotion of joy.

The excitement of their meeting having subsided they seated themselves,
David in an easy chair, the doctor on the broad couch, and Pepeeta on a
little ottoman at his feet. Vivid green curtains partially obscured the
bright sunshine which beat upon the windows. The wall-paper was cheap,
v