The dry leaves caught, a light flame formed, the wood caught in its turn, and then the blaze, leaping high, roared up the chimney.

In a moment the hearth was glowing, and presently a bed of deep red coals began to grow.
Paul uttered a low laugh of joy, and spread out his hands to the flames.
The red light glowed across the delicately cut but strong face of the boy, and Henry noticed now that all his color was gone, leaving his features white and drawn.
"Sit a little closer, Paul, a little closer," he said, still in tones of high, good cheer.

"Isn't it the most beautiful fire you ever saw ?" "Yes," said Paul, "it is.

It looks mighty good, but it's curious that it doesn't warm me more." Henry had closed the door, and it was already very hot in the cabin; but he decided now on another step--one that would take more time, but it must be taken.
"Paul," he said, "I'm going out in the woods to look for something, and I may be gone at least half an hour.

Take good care of our house while I'm away." "All right," said Paul.