t, needing what he was too generous
and unselfish to ask for, was responding to Markham's summons and was
on his way to Bretherton.

Of course neither Markham nor his sister could understand his need of
sympathy and tenderness. Proudly he had withheld his private cares and
troubles. He accepted from others only what he might some day hope to
return; he never drew a check on the bank of sympathy without taking
account of his savings!

When Sandy came in sight of the beautiful old house on the hill, and
when but a meadow lay between him and it, he gave a long, sweet
bird-call and waited. A second time he called and then he saw Bob
loping over the front lawn and, with upraised sniffing nose, caper
about. A third trill settled the dog's doubts, and with an abandon
that age could not overcome he ran and jumped to the unseen friend.

"Good old fellow!" cried Sandy when Bob drew near; "good old pal!" And
then the dog was in the young fellow's arms. After a few moments they
sedately went on their homeward way together--Sandy's hand resting upon
the uplifted yellow head.

"Sandy, you look thin!" Matilda remarked at dinner as she eyed him over
her spectacles. "You make me think of the lean days after your fever
seven years ago."

"I reckon I am still growing, Miss Markham."

Levi scanned the young face.

"Mill work never used you up," he said slowly.

"It's not work, sir. It's been right hot in town, and you know the
city a ways stifles me."

"Umph!" said Markham.

After Matilda had gone to bed that evening Levi sat on the broad piazza
with Sandy, while a late yellow-red moon rode majestically in the sky
and lighted the dew-touched meadow land.

"Looks hot," Levi murmured; "hot and dry."

"Yes," agreed Sandy. Then quite suddenly Markham asked:

"Sandford, I wish you to tell me exactly why you wanted extra money
this summer. I say wish, because I know I have no right to demand your
confidence, but I do think I have a right to protect you against--well,
against yourself when it comes to personal injury. You trusted me
seven years ago with your confidence; you've talked pretty openly to me
during your school and college years. Reports speak louder than
words--but we've kept in touch with each other. I make no claims, but
I'd like to think you know I am your friend."

Just then the moonlight shifted to Sandy's face and lay across it in
brilliant clearness.

"I can tell you better to-night, sir, than I