Then he once more took up a little strip of paper that Graham had given him, and leaned forward with his arms upon the table.

The mill was very silent at last, for of all who had toiled in it that day one weary man alone sat awake, staring, with aching eyes, in front of him.

There was, however, a little smile in them, for roseate visions floated before them.

If the promise that strip of paper held out was redeemed, they might materialize, for those who had toiled and wasted their substance that the eastern peoples might be fed would that year, at least, not go without their reward.

Then he stretched out his arms wearily above his head.
"It almost seems that what I have hoped for may be mine," he said.
"Still, there is a good deal to be done first, and not two hours left before I begin it to-morrow.".