of his life-work was as non-professional as that of a mother who
yearns over the children she cannot help loving. Lottie appeared
strong and lovely by nature. It seemed to him that the half-effaced,
yet still lingering image of God rested upon her beautiful face
more distinctly than he had ever seen it elsewhere. The thought of
that image becoming gradually blurred and obliterated by sin--of
this seemingly exquisite and budding flower growing into a coarse,
rank weed--was revolting to his mind.






CHAPTER V.

PLAIN TALK.





At last the sound of mirth and laughter ceased, and the house became
quiet.

Lottie sat warming her feet at the glowing coals in her room,
before retiring. A dreamy smile played upon her face, coming and
going with passing thoughts, even as the firelight flickered upon
it.