'It is worth a man's life,' exclaimed Graeme earnestly. His youngerbrother turned his face eagerly toward the mother. For answer sheslipped her hand into his and exclaimed softly, while her eyes shonelike stars--

'Some day, Jack, perhaps! God knows.' But Jack only lookedsteadily at her, smiling a little and patting her arm.

'You'd shine there, mother,' said Graeme, smiling upon her; 'you'dmuch better come with me.' She started, and said faintly--

'With you?' It was the first hint he had given of his purpose.'You are going back?'

'What! as a missionary?' said Jack.

'Not to preach, Jack; I'm not orthodox enough,' looking at hisfather and shaking his head; 'but to build railroads and lend ahand to some poor chap, if I can.'

'Could you not find work nearer home, my boy?' asked the portlyher;'there is plenty of both kinds near us here, surely.'