ed Harry, watching alertly. On
yesterday's excursion he had ridden Essex Maid, after all; and he smiled
with interest now, in the couple who were evidently talking to one another
with the utmost zest as they finally disappeared at a canter among the
trees.

"It is ideal, it's perfectly ideal, Harry." Julia drew a long breath. "I
was so surprised this morning, to waken and find it reality, after all."
She looked with thoughtful eyes at her husband. "I wonder what my new work
will be!" she added.

"Not talking about that already, I hope!" he answered, laughing. "I've an
idea you will find occupation enough for one while, in learning to be idle.
Sit still now and look about you on the work accomplished."

"What work?"

"That I'm here and that you're here: that the action of Truth has brought
these wonders about."

After breakfast the farewells were said. "You're happy, aren't you,
father?" asked Jewel doubtfully, as she clung about his neck.

"Never so happy, Jewel," he answered.

She turned to her grandfather. "When is father coming back again?" she
asked.

"As soon as he can," was the reply.

"You don't want me until September, I believe," said the young man bluntly.
He still retained the consciousness, half amused, half hurt, that his
father considered him superfluous.

"Why, September is almost next winter," said Jewel appealingly.

Mr. Evringham looked his son full in the eyes and liked the direct way they
met him.

"The latchstring will be out from now on, Harry I want you to feel that it
is your latchstring as much as mine."

His son did not speak, but the way the two men suddenly clasped hands gave
Jewel a very comforted sensation.

"And you don't feel a bit sorry to be going alone to Chicago?" she pursued,
again centring her attention and embrace upon her father.

"I tell you I was never so happy in my life," he responded, kissing her and
setting her on her feet. "Are you going to allow me to drive to the station
in your place this morning?"

"I'd let you do anything, father," returned Jewel affectionately. It
touched her little heart to see him go alone away from such a happy family
circle, but her mother's good cheer was reassuring.

They had scarcely had a minute alone together since Mrs. Evringham's
arrival, and when the last wave had been sent toward the head leaning out
of the brougham window, mother and child went up the broad staircase
together, pausing before the tall clock whose chi