and I an encloser of things to
be.
Long I was hugged close, long and long.
Immense have been the preparations for me,
Faithful and friendly the arms that have helped me.
Cycles ferried my cradle, rowing and rowing like cheerful boatmen--
For room to me, stars kept aside in their own rings,
They sent influences to look after what was to hold me."

He spoke the words softly to small Jerry.

"Yes, yes, that's what I've been searching. It is splendid to be a part
of the great processes of life!" said Jane, head high, eyes shining.

"Even so, my friend, I have come to congratulate you upon your valour,
and your achievement."

They sat for an hour, talking earnestly.

"What now, comrade? A rest for a year or so, until the youngling is on
his feet?"

"No, no. I am bursting with new ideas for the book. I shall finish it
this winter, Martin."

"Not too fast. You have crowded the big experiences into this year,
indomitable Jane. 'Easy does it,' as the old proverb says."

"I have gobbled them down, but I will digest my big experiences slowly,
I promise you. I am full of life and vigour and passion for work. This
year ought to bring a big harvest."

"Your book is in my thoughts a great deal. I have spoken of it to a
publisher friend, and he wants to see it. He will appreciate its
quality, I know. It will not be a 'best seller,' Jane."

"Of course not. I don't want it to. I suppose my public is like the
baby. I shall get acquainted with it, after it is born, and love it. But
just now my mind is full of saying what is in my thoughts--in my heart."

"You will get the audience that belongs to you. 'I know my own shall
come to me' is true between author and audience."

"I haven't told Jerry, yet."

"You are still shy about it?"

"No one knows but you."

"That fact may lead me on over to posterity. It may be my one claim to
fame."

"You're making fun of me, Martin!"

"Well, here, we can't have that," said Jerry, coming in briskly.

"Here you are," said Jane, patting the hand he laid on her shoulder.

Christiansen shook hands with him.

"Again my congratulations."

"Thanks. It's a pretty fine exhibition, isn't it?"

"It is--the best you've made," replied Martin, joining in the laugh.

CHAPTER XXII

Jerry made the most careful plans for the transfer of his family to the
new studio. He was like an eager little boy in his anxiety to have Jane
see and approve the home he had chosen fo