tendencies in the face and as resolutely work out such changes as true
manhood requires. If you will permit a metaphor, I feel like a
shipmaster whom a long-continued and relentless gale has driven into
an unexpected and quiet harbor. Before I put to sea again I would like
to rest, make repairs, and get my true bearings, otherwise I may make
shipwreck altogether. And so, impelled by my stress and need, I
venture to ask if you will permit me to become an inmate of your home
for a time on terms similar to those that you have made with Miss
Warren. That you may very naturally decline is the ground of the fear
to which I referred."

"Richard Morton," said the old lady heartily, "thee's welcome to stay
with us as long as thee pleases, and to come whenever thee can. The
leadings in this case are plain, and I shall pray the kind Heavenly
Father that all thy hopes may be realized."

"One has been realized truly. You cannot know how grateful I am."

"Thee's welcome, surely, and father will tell thee so, too. Come," and
she led me out to the further end of the veranda, where Mr. Yocomb sat
with Miss Warren, his daughters, and Silas Jones grouped near him.

"Well," exclaimed Adah eagerly, "what is Mr. Morton's calling? It
must, indeed, be a dreadful business, since you have had such a long
and serious time."

Mrs. Yocomb looked at me a little blankly.

"I declare," I exclaimed, laughing, "I forgot to tell you."