Sir Edward looked down at the sweet little face raised so coaxingly to
his, and then took her up in his arms; but after he had given her the
desired kiss he said, with some effort,--

"I want you to do something to-night, little one. When you say your
prayers, ask that one of God's prodigal sons may be brought back this
Christmas time. It is one who wants to return. Will you pray for him?"

"Yes, uncle," replied the child softly. "And will you tell me his name?"

"No, I cannot do that."

Something in his face made his little niece refrain from asking further
questions. She left him a moment later, and Sir Edward went to the
smoking-room and seated himself in a chair by the fire. The chimes of
the village church were ringing out merrily, and presently outside in
the avenue a little company of carol singers were singing the sweet old
Christmas truths that none can hear untouched.

"_Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward
men_."

A sense of the love of God seemed to surround his soul, and this verse
came into his mind as he mused:--

"_I have loved thee with an everlasting love, therefore with
loving-kindness have I drawn thee_."

Could he not trace in the events of the last few months the hand of a