saplings, split very thin, lay scattered around him, while bundles of
walnut poles, the crude material of his manufacture, were piled up
in the corners ready for use. With a quick and dexterous hand the
Solitary wove in the ribbon-like pieces, showing great familiarity
with the work. Without desisting from his labor, he expressed pleasure
at the visit of his friend, and requested him to be seated.

"I am honored," he said, "this day. To what shall I ascribe the notice
of the wealthy Mr. Armstrong?"

There was a slight tone of irony in the words. It probably was
observed by Mr. Armstrong, for, with some feeling, he replied:

"Speak to me not so coldly. And yet," he added, dejectedly, "I
deserve that all the world should reject me. Neither the happy nor the
miserable feel sympathy for me."

The wayward humor of Holden was evidently softened by the sadness of
the sweet, low voice.

"Each heart," he said, "knoweth best its own bitterness, and I repent
me of my rudeness. But when I saw thee here I could not but remember
that I had dwelt long years in this dwelling, and"--he hesitated, and
Armstrong finished the sentence:

"And you would say this is the first time I have darkened your door.
Well may it be called darkness where my unhappy shadow falls. But
forgive me: it is only lately that I learned to know you."

"Thou errest, James Armstrong," returned Holden, "if thou thinkest