dness of those who have the daily and hourly sense of God's
presence with them and His fatherly care over them. In time of trouble,
and at all times, indeed, it is sweet to know that we have His word and
promise for all that we possibly need."

"Yes," said Aunt Elsie, uneasily, and rather coldly. "There is much
truth in what you say."

Mr Craig continued: "There is no fear of being forgotten. He who sees
the sparrow when it falls, and does not forget to number the hairs of
our heads, may well be trusted. And may we not trust in Him who is not
ashamed to call His people brethren? Our Elder Brother! He who
suffered being tempted--who is touched with the feeling of our
infirmities! It is worth while to have His promise to fall back upon--
for me in my journeys, for you amid your household cares, and for this
little maiden here amid whatever life may bring to her."

In the interest with which she listened, Christie had forgotten her
shyness, and had drawn quite near; and now she sat with her eyes
fastened on the good man's face, her own quite expressive of intense
eagerness.

"Christie," said her aunt, as her eye fell upon her, "it is high time
you were in bed. There will be no getting you up in the morning. Your
sisters are all asleep. Haste away."

Christie would have given much for courage to ask one question; and
perhaps a glance into the kind face that was looking down upon her might
have given it to her, had her aunt not been there. Perhaps he guessed
her thought; for he said, as he put out his hand and laid it softly on
hers:

"Yes, my lassie; it is not beyond belief that the kind care and the
loving eye of this Elder Brother should be over you, if you are one of
His little ones. Are you?"

The last words were spoken after a momentary pause, and the little brown
hand was gently pressed as they were uttered. If Christie could have
found words with which to answer him, she could not have uttered them
through the tears and sobs that had not been far from her all the
evening. Slowly obeying the admonishing touch of her aunt, she withdrew
her hand from the gentle pressure that detained it, and crept away in
the dark to the room where all her sisters, except Effie, were already
asleep.

And what a tumult of glad, wondering and doubtful thoughts was stirring
her heart as she seated herself on the floor and leaned her weary head
upon her hand! Could it all be true? Did God see and hear and care for