them. By seeking the Divine Artist's aid more than humanity's first
perfection can be regained. It is possible for even that wretched
creature we saw to attain an outward loveliness exceeding that of
any woman now living."

"That passes beyond the limit of my imagination," said Harcourt.

"Absurd!" muttered De Forrest.

"I fear you are not orthodox," said Bel.

"That means you do not agree with me. But please do not think that
because I am a minister you must talk upon subjects that are rather
grave and deep for a sleighing party."

"That's right, Cousin Frank," said Addie. "Dr. Beams will want you
to preach for him next Sunday. I advise you to reserve your thunder
till that occasion, when you may come out as strong as you please."

"'Chinese thunder' at best," whispered Harcourt to Addie; but all
heard him.

Hemstead bit his lip and said nothing, but Lottie spoke up quickly:
"No matter about the 'thunder,' Mr. Harcourt. That is only noise
under any circumstances. But suppose there is the lightning of
truth in what Mr. Hemstead says?"

"And suppose there is not?" he replied, with a shrug.

Hemstead gave Lottie a quick, pleased look, which Bel and De Forrest