church was still empty.

The Recluse led the way up the nave to the north side of the Altar.
The Child started a little; she was really dreaming then a kind of
circular dream, for again she stood before the cave, again the
reverend figure kept watch and ward over the kneeling Maid and the
little Babe. The sheep and the shepherds were not there, but a
little lamb had strayed in; and the wonderful figures of fire and
mist--they were there in their place.

"Little one," said the Recluse softly, "here is a symbol--
concealment yet revelation--the King as servant--the strong
helpless--the Almighty a little child; and thus the infinite stands
revealed for all of us, visible and attainable, if we will have it
so. It is the centre of all mystery, the greatest possible wisdom,
the Eternal Child."

"You showed it me before," said the Child, "only we were out of
doors, and the shepherds were there with the sheep; but the angels
are here just the same."

The Recluse bowed his head.

"Wait for me here with them, dear Child, I will fetch you after
service."

The church began to fill; old men in smock frocks and tall hats,
little children wrapped warm against the cold, lads, shining and
spruce, old women in crossed shawls and wonderful bonnets. The
service was not very long; then the Recluse went up into the old