The needs now were cheerfulness, kindness, help, action, and these the girls furnished with a spirit that did me good.
"Mrs.Hoden, who dressed this baby ?" presently asked Miss Sampson.

I peeped in to see a dilapidated youngster on her knees.

That sight, if any other was needed, completed my full and splendid estimate of Diane Sampson.
"Mr.Steele," replied Mrs.Hoden.
"Mr.Steele!" exclaimed Miss Sampson.
"Yes; he's taken care of us all since--since--" Mrs.Hoden choked.
"Oh, so you've had no help but his," replied Miss Sampson hastily.

"No women?
Too bad! I'll send someone, Mrs.Hoden, and I'll come myself." "It'll be good of you," went on the older woman.

"You see, Jim had few friends--that is, right in town.