ss creature till
she took me in hand, and now, when she is making something of me, when
we are going to peg away together at the book which is going to make
our fortune, she is going to leave me. I can't live without her! I
shall go to the dogs!'

'Is it mother you mean? Oh, father, we won't let her leave us! Why
does she want to go?'

'She doesn't; it is cruel fate. Bobby, my boy, life is an utter
failure. Oh! I don't know what I am saying, or why I am talking like
this. Your mother is dying fast, can't you see it? I hoped she was
getting stronger, but the doctor says it has only been her strong will
that has got her downstairs at all. Oh, Helen, you're too young, too
full of life and spirit to be taken! I will not believe it!'

He folded his arms on the top bar of the gate and dropped his head upon
them with a groan. Bobby stood perfectly still; the news was so
astounding, so bewildering, that he could hardly take it in.

'Is mother going through the golden gate now?' he asked.

There was no answer. Then Bobby climbed up on the gate with a longing
desire to comfort his father. He had never seen a grown-up person in
trouble before, and it was with the greatest effort he prevented
himself from bursting into tears.

'Father, dear, don't cry! It's a lovely thing when God calls people.
Mother tolded us herself last Sunday it was. And p'raps God will take
her for a visit, and then send her back again. Is she reely going into
heaven soon? Oh, wouldn't it be nice if we could all go with her! May
I run and tell True; and may we just ask mother about it a little?'

'Leave me, child! Run away!' And when his pattering footsteps had
died away Bobby's father said in bitterness of spirit: 'Heartless
little scamp! He is enjoying the sensation of it!'

But he misunderstood Bobby. The child had never seen death, and did
not understand it in the least; his vision was steadfastly fixed on the
life hereafter. What wonder that the glories of it eclipsed the
present shadow!

True received his news first incredulously, then stamped and stormed in
helpless passion.

'Mother shan't die! She shan't be put in the ground! Bobby, we'll
keep her from going. Oh, mother, mother! we couldn't live without you!'

A burst of tears followed, in which Bobby joined her from very
sympathy. Then softly they stole up the steep narrow stairs to their
mother's room. They met Margot at the door.

'Oh dear!' she sighed,