y. "It shows us that we have
much to learn about the common things around us."

"Well, what the bee does, so should the teacher of the Word," the
professor resumed. "He should go to the Bible as the bee to the
flower, and 'read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest.' Thus, through a
process of his own, he is to bring forth the real spiritual honey for
the benefit of hungry souls."

"Daddy, let's talk about something else," Nan suggested. "I am tired
of such deep subjects. I was promised that I could talk to Mr.
Handyman the next time he came, and there are so many things I want to
ask him."

Douglas glanced at the clock and was surprised to find that it was
nearly nine. He rose at once to his feet.

"I must go now," he remarked. "It would not do for me to keep you up
late."

"That's always the way," Nan pouted.

"Next time I come we shall have a long talk," Douglas promised.

Nell showed Douglas to the door. He was glad of this, as it gave him
an opportunity to deliver Mrs. Dempster's message.

"Is Jean very ill?" Nell asked.

"I am afraid so."

"Well, I shall go over to-morrow. Poor girl, she has had a hard time
of it. Her face was so white at the hall door. She startled me. And,
oh, Mr. Handyman, I want to thank you for the stand you took that
night."

"You don't blame me, then?"

"Blame you! Why, no."

"I am thankful for that. It shows that all are not against me."

"Only the Stubbles condemn you. They are very angry."

Nell paused suddenly, as if in deep thought.

"Are you going right home?" she presently asked.

"Yes."

"Would you mind taking something for Jake? It is a pick-handle which
we brought from the wharf last night in our boat. We often bring
things for him and he does the same for us. It is a new one, and he
may need it. It is right there on the verandah."

Douglas found the stick and placed it over his shoulder, bade Nell
good-night, and plunged forth into the darkness.

CHAPTER XVI

TWIN FIRES

Douglas walked slowly toward the main highway, lost in thought. He was
much interested in the professor's comments about clergymen. He knew
it was a good tonic to hear such plain statements. But he thought
mostly about Nell. He had watched her during the time he had been at
the house and was more deeply impressed than ever. She was so quiet
and reserved. She had never seemed so beautiful as she sat by the
table with the light from the shaded lamp falling u