sible!

MRS. BEELER.

_Looking at Michaelis._

It is written that he who has faith, even as a grain of mustard seed--.
I have had faith.

MARTHA.

Law, you've had faith enough any time these five years, Mary. There was
something else wanting, 'pears to me.

MRS. BEELER.

There was wanting the word of true belief, saying, "Suffer no more!
Stoop and drink of the waters of mercy and healing."

_Outside, the shrill soprano of a woman is heard, taking up a hymn.
At the sound Michaelis goes to the window. He stands rigid,
listening to the hymn to the end of the verse, when other voices
join in the chorus. The fog has partially cleared._

MICHAELIS.

_Turning slowly to Rhoda._

Who are they?

RHODA.

Sick people.

MICHAELIS.

How did they find out I was here?

RHODA.

It was known you were somewhere near.--They have been gathering for
days.--They saw the boy, just now, in the village.

MRS. BEELER.

_Comes a step or two nearer Michaelis._

Your great hour is at hand!

_He looks distractedly about. The light has faded from his face,
giving place to strong nervous agitation, resembling fear. He
speaks as if to himself._

MICHAELIS.

My hour!--My hour!--And I--and I--!

_He puts his hand over his eyes, as if to shut out some vision of
dread._

MRS. BEELER.

You will not fail them? You cannot fail them, now.

_Michaelis looks at Mrs. Beeler, then for a long time at Rhoda. He
gathers himself together, and gazes steadfastly before him, as at
some unseen presence._

No.--I have waited so long. I have had such deep assurances.--I must
not fail. I must not fail.

CURTAIN

ACT II

_Late afternoon of the same day._

_Mrs. Beeler sits in a low chair near the window. She has ceased
reading the Testament, which lies open in her lap._

_Uncle Abe sits on the floor with Annie. They are playing with building
blocks, piling up and tearing down various ambitious structures. Rhoda
enters from outside, with hat and cloak, carrying a large bunch of
Easter lilies._

RHODA.

_Kissing her aunt._

Still sitting up! You're not strong enough yet to do this. See, I've
brought you some Easter lilies.

_She hands one to Mrs. Beeler. As she takes off her things, she
sees the old Negro gazing at her._

Well, Uncle Abe?

UNCLE ABE.

I's awake an' a-watchin', honey!

_He turns again to the child, shaking his hea