rcling up from numerous chimneys.
The village nestled on the side of a hill and thus met the sun's early
smile while the surrounding valleys were still draped in shadows. To
Jasper it seemed as if fairyland had burst suddenly upon his view after
his drive through the sombre forest. The snow sparkled like countless
diamonds and the white-robed trees stood bathed in glistening glory.
It was Nature's silent symphony in honour of the birthday of the great
Prince of Peace.

The telephone was at the store and it did not take Jasper long to
arouse Andy Forbes and acquaint him with the object of his early visit.
The storekeeper was greatly interested in the news of Peter Sinclair's
illness. He knew that in a short time various rumours would be
circulating throughout the parish. But he would have exact information
and would be able to impress all by his hints of superior and
first-hand knowledge.

It took Andy some time to get "Central" in the city, and longer still
to make connection with the Sinclair home, the number of which he had
found in the Telephone Directory. But at length his efforts were
rewarded and he handed the receiver to Jasper.

"Guess it's her, all right," was his comment. "Her voice seems mighty
shaky as if she's scared most out of her wits."

How far away seemed Lois' voice and how anxious the tone as before
Jasper had even time to explain she asked about her father. Then, as
briefly as possible, Jasper told what had happened to him, his illness,
and where he was.

"We need a nurse at once," he said, "and if you can get one, send her
out on the suburban. I will meet her at the station."

"She will be there," was the emphatic reply. "I know of one who will
go without fail. I thank you very much, Mr. Randall, for all your
kindness to my father."

Leaving the store Jasper made straight for the Haven where he received
a royal welcome. Early though it was they were all astir for a
wonderful Christmas tree had been prepared the day before, and there it
stood loaded with presents.

"We had it for Betty," Mrs. Peterson explained, though it was quite
evident that she and the captain as well as David were as much pleased
as the girl.

Besides the presents from one another there was something for each one
from Lois. As Jasper watched them unwrap their gifts and listened to
Betty's exclamations of delight, a slight feeling of jealousy stole
into his heart. He was the only one there beyond the orb