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 So intent were they on their task that her appearance was unnoticed until she gave Jack a sound slap on the back, at the same time shouting,—"Hello, everybody!"

"Good heavens! Eletheer. At your old tricks," Jack answered, whirling her around in a jig.

Hernando burst out laughing but managed to grasp her outstretched hand as they brushed past him.

Reuben's heart was full to overflowing. Once more to see his dear children gathered together in this world of meetings and partings! But his feelings always under control, few guessed their depth.

"Dear old Reuben," said Eletheer, impulsively flinging her arms around his neck, "always the same! I have you to thank for many valuable points. In my daily rounds at the hospital your example is always before me."

"Pshaw, Honey, yo'se gwine to be a scientific nurse," he replied overwhelmed with confusion.