.

RALPH'S SACRIFICE.
When he reached the old house, Ralph was prepared for the results of any further disaster, for disaster had few further results for which it was needful to prepare.

A light burned in the kitchen, and another in that room above it where lately his father had lain.

When Ralph entered, Willy Ray was seated before the fire, his hand in the hand of Rotha, who sat by his side.

On every feature of his pallid face were traces of suffering.
"What of mother ?" said Ralph huskily, his eyes traversing the kitchen.
Willy rose and put his hand on Ralph's shoulder.