know me, I suppose?--the Giant Fear who always makes Everychild
tremble?"

A calm voice interposed--the voice of Father Time: "The Giant Fear,
whom Everychild may conquer!"

The voice was so reassuring, and the eyes of Father Time were so calm
and friendly, that Everychild ceased to despair. With trembling limbs
he ran to Father Time. "If you would lend me your scythe----" he
gasped. He laid a hand on the scythe of Father Time.

But Father Time withheld the scythe. He said gently, "The scythe of
Father Time is a wonderful weapon; but a better one is at Everychild's
command. Behold!"

As he spoke he pointed majestically to the Masked Lady.

She had arisen, and Everychild saw that she held aloft a slim, shining
sword!

A hush fell within the room; but presently Everychild, addressing
Father Time, whispered: "A sword! And may I take it?"

With a very firm voice Father Time replied: "You may, and with it you
shall prevail!"

Oddly enough, Everychild forgot for the moment that he was in peril.
He drew near to the Masked Lady, and he could see that she was smiling.
She placed the sword in his hand.