on trial, lent me some of His riches to try me, and then, seeing that I
was not in a condition to stand such favors, took them all from me. Yes,
it was a blessing in disguise. Darling, for this knowledge I am indebted
to you," and he leaned over and kissed her.

"There you are wrong again," she said; "what about God above?"

"You are right. 'Tis He only who should have our gratitude. You have
been but an instrument in His hand. I see it all. O Father, forgive my
foolish thoughts." He uncovered his head, as if in prayer.

He sat down with her on the stone. The smoke began to rise from the
chimneys of the town below, and soon the Dry Bench farm-houses showed
signs of life. He pressed her cheek against his own.

"Sweetheart," said he, "'When love has blended and molded two beings in
an angelic and sacred union, they have found the secret of life;
henceforth they are only the two terms of the same destiny, the two
wings of one mind. Love and soar.' That is from Victor Hugo; how true it
is."

After a time they went down to the old home. A Mr. Temming was living
there, as a renter. He was not acquainted with Mr. Ames, and was not
disposed to show much courtesy, so they left.

"What do you think of the place?" he asked.

"I like it."

"Could you live there?"