It was more difficult to sacrifice her whims than her comforts; but all had been given up when and where required by the sweet lordly baby, who reigned paramount in his very helplessness.
From some cause or other, an exchange of ministers for one Sunday was to be effected with a neighbouring congregation, and Mr Benson went on a short absence from home.

When he returned on Monday, he was met at the house-door by his sister, who had evidently been looking out for him for some time.

She stepped out to greet him.
"Don't hurry yourself, Thurstan! all's well; only I wanted to tell you something.

Don't fidget yourself--baby is quite well, bless him! It's only good news.

Come into your room, and let me talk a little quietly with you." She drew him into his study, which was near the outer door, and then she took off his coat, and put his carpet-bag in a corner, and wheeled a chair to the fire, before she would begin.
"Well, now! to think how often things fall out just as we want them, Thurstan! Have not you often wondered what was to be done with Ruth when the time came at which we promised her she should earn her living?
I am sure you have, because I have so often thought about it myself.